Charlotte L. Houran, 96
Lake Zurich, IL – Charlotte “Char” Leigh (Hervey) Houran, 96, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2024, at her home. Born on June 12, 1928, in Canton, IL, she was a figure of unwavering love and support in her family.
Predeceased by her beloved husband James “Jim” G. Houran, daughter Kimberly A. (Houran) Bratta, son James H. Houran, father Ralph S. Hervey, mother Verna B. (Simmons) Hervey, sister Alleta J. (Hervey) Behm, and sister Nancy E. (Hervey) Emert. Char leaves behind a legacy of enduring love and perseverance. She is survived by her grandson Michael J. Bratta (wife Dina M. Froustis), granddaughter Emma K. Houran, great granddaughter Athena J. Bratta, and great grandson Michael P. Bratta, along with many close friends and relatives who will forever cherish her memory.
A longtime resident of Chicago Heights and Olympia Fields, IL, Char was not only a loving matriarch but also a formidable businesswoman. She successfully ran Cook’s Office Equipment, a family-owned office equipment company in Chicago Heights, IL, where her acumen and leadership were instrumental in the company’s growth and success. Her professional achievements stood alongside her personal passions; she was an avid golfer, proudly holding several club championships at C.H.C.C. and an enthusiastic bridge player.
Char will be remembered not only for her athletic and business accomplishments but also for her kind-hearted nature, her infectious laugh, her fun personality, and her unwavering dedication to her family and community. Her life was a beautiful demonstration of love through action, and she was a pillar of strength and comfort to all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lake Forest College.
The Bratta family wishes to extend their gratitude to the caregivers, staff, and friends at Azpira Place of Lake Zurich, for their care, compassion, and companionship during Charlotte’s final four plus years.
Rest in peace, Char, your love and lessons will forever guide us.