Obituary of Margaret M. Louch

Margaret M. Louch

(nee Shukle)

Margaret M. Louch, passed away peacefully, at the age of 89, on Saturday, November 15, 2025, in Joliet, Illinois. Born on September 5, 1936, in Joliet to the late Clarence and Marian (nee Schmidt) Shukle, Margaret remained deeply rooted in the community that shaped her, offering many years of selfless dedication and love to her family and neighbors.

Margaret was a 1954 graduate of St. Francis Academy and spent over two decades serving with commitment and integrity at the Will County Recorder of Deeds office before her retirement. Beyond her professional life, she was a tireless volunteer and highly engaged citizen. For more than 25 years, she gave her time to the Rialto Square Theatre, sharing her love of the arts. She also contributed to civic life through the Crest Hill Woman’s Civic League and as a dedicated Republican Election Judge. Her faith and values echoed throughout her affiliations; she was a long-standing member of the St. Anne Council of Catholic Women—honored as their Woman of the Year in 1997—and an honorary life member of the Chaney/Monge PTA. Margaret also held membership in the Lockport Township Young Timers and was enriched by the camaraderie of the Slovenian Union of America, formerly the Slovenian Woman's Union.

Margaret led a life defined by love, generosity, and faith. She found joy in swimming and, above all, in spending time surrounded by her family. Her warmth and unwavering devotion to others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Margaret is survived by her children, Joseph Louch, James (Audrey) Louch, Jr., Carolyn (Chuck) Willard, and Annette (Brian) Parker; six grandchildren; one precious great-granddaughter; and her sister, Carol (the late Fred) Hewitt. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who benefited from her warmth and guidance.

She is preceded in death by her husband, James J. Louch, Sr.; one grandson, Benjamin Louch; her parents; and her sister, Claire Wagner.

Visitation for Margaret M. Louch will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of prayers at 10:45 a.m.  A Mass of Christian burial will follow at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus at 11:30 a.m.  Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Romeoville.

For more information please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.