In loving memory of Julie Haas, a memorial visitation will be held at The Copper Cow, in Mount Carroll, Illinois, on Saturday, September 16, 2023, from 1 to 3 p.m. The memorial service will begin at 3 p.m., with food to be served after it concludes. Family and friends are encouraged to share photos of Julie here on our website.
Julie Lynn Haas (January 25, 1958 – September 2, 2023), a native of Savannah and Mount Carroll IL, passed away peacefully. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Jewel Haas Howard, affectionately known as “Little Julie,” and her cherished grandchildren, Ben and Aurora Howard. Julie leaves behind her three brothers: James Jr., Robert and Roger Haas, as well as a large extended family of nieces, nephews and sisters-in-law. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, James Sr. and Lillian Haas.
Julie was an exceptional seamstress, known for her talent for transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Her ability to recreate objects from a mere photograph, exemplified by her famous toilet paper wedding dresses on display in Ripley’s Believe It or Not museums around the world, has left an indelible mark. Selflessly, she shared her expertise, skillfully creating cheerleading uniforms, prom dresses, wedding dresses, drapes, and more, often enlisting the help of many in her creative endeavors.
Her culinary artistry was also outstanding, as she expertly prepared delicious main courses and irresistible desserts, with her cakes being creative works of art. Her annual dinners and holiday parties were eagerly anticipated events, and they always exceeded expectations.
Julie’s visual creativity extended to decor, where she transformed homes into homes that left everyone who entered them in awe. Her Christmas performances were amazing and worthy of gracing the pages of magazines.
Her love for her grandchildren earned her the nickname “Uma,” a role she embraced wholeheartedly. She was deeply involved in their lives, providing unwavering support in their endeavours, from helping out with late-night English newspapers to implementing countless projects and ideas that only an Uma, like Julie, could say no to. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, always making sure they knew she was very proud of them and knew they held a special place in her heart as her top priority.
Jolie put family at the center of her life and actively participated in important milestones. Her caring letters and calls maintained lasting bonds with her many nieces and nephews, making each of them uniquely cherished. She was the pillar and glue that held the entire Haas family together, cementing her close relationship with her siblings over the years.
Julie not only possessed creative talents, but also excelled in the male-dominated field of logistics and transportation, characterized by courage, intuition, sales acumen and natural leadership. She learned these skills from her parents, her class and poise from her mother and the assertive work ethic and leadership of her father. She didn’t let anything stand in her way of accomplishing anything she set her mind to.
Julie loved to make paper and was known for her large-scale paper signs, and many called her “Martha Stewart.” She loved traveling, sewing, horseback riding, afternoon strolls through the countryside with her brother Roger, boating, snuggling with her daughter and grandchildren, helping others and sneaking extra gifts for her little ones. Julie was so full of life, her infectious laugh filled the room full of people. She was a God-fearing woman who always kept her faith, even on the most difficult days. She was one of the finest women with the biggest hearts. Julie was a domestic violence advocate and philanthropist. She loved to dance and had an angel’s voice when she sang. She enjoyed spending time with her best friends and drinking dirty martinis or bloody marys. Julie was certainly one of a kind and will be missed by all.
As we honor the memory of Julie Haas, we celebrate the legacy of a woman whose creativity, generosity, and love seamlessly woven into the fabric of our lives. She remains a beacon of warmth, a tireless worker, and the nucleus of our cherished family. In our memories, you will always be our busy butterfly and bee.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.
(Tags for translation)Julie Haas