Edward F. Bouas, a cherished resident of Libertyville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at the age of 76.
Born on Tuesday, August 10, 1948, in Belleville, Illinois to Wilbur and Agnes (Doolin) Bouas. On August 30, 1969, at the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Centralia, Ed married the love of his life, Karen Castleman.
Ed is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Karen Bouas, who resides in Libertyville, Illinois. His memory will be cherished by his brother, James Bouas, and sister-in-law, Barbara Bouas, alongside his adored nieces and nephews: Debbie Clendenny and her husband George, Craig Bouas and wife Tria, and Paula Mitchell and her husband David. Edward also leaves behind many treasured great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins who will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Wilbur and Agnes Bouas, and his father and mother-in-law, William and Mildred “Mib” Castleman. His grandparents, Frank and Ethel Bouas, and Ben and Hattie Doolin, also rest in peace.
Ed received his education at Okawville High School before continuing his studies at Kaskaskia College and Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where he was an active member of the Men’s Glee Club. His academic journey laid the foundation for a fulfilling career.
Throughout his professional life, Ed committed many years to retail management with prominent companies such as W.T. Grant and Montgomery Wards. Later, he dedicated his skills to the financial sector, eventually retiring from American Enterprise Bank in Buffalo Grove, Illinois. He also served honorably in the Illinois National Guard for seven years, demonstrating his dedication and commitment to his country.
Ed had a zest for life, evident in his numerous interests and activities. During his high school and college years, he proudly showcased sheep at various county and state fairs, earning numerous ribbons and awards. He cherished the great outdoors, whether casting a line while fishing or hunting mushrooms in the quiet beauty of nature. Ed F. Bouas will be remembered for his gentle spirit, caring nature, and the joy he brought into the lives of those around him. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A graveside service will be held in his honor on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Elmwood Cemetery in Centralia, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Okawville High School Scholarship Fund, supporting future generations in Ed’s memory and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Ed’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page.
