John Anton Churan, 88, of Hillsboro, died peacefully in hospice care with family near on May 19, 2026.
In honor of Mr. Churan’s life, memorial services will be held at a future date to be announced.
Mr. Churan was born on March 30, 1938, in Crystal Lake, to John Churan Senior and Deborah Anne Churan.
He lived a life dedicated to family, nature and service. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy during peacetime in Hawaii from 1956 to 1962. After his military service, he earned his degree through the University of Illinois in forestry/biological studies. He married Deborah Ruth Hanke of Butler and became a district forester for multiple counties in southern Illinois. Many knew him locally as the “tree Doctor” and his children liked to tell friends that their dad was Smokey the Bear, since he occasionally had to dress as Smokey the Bear and give presentations to local schools and groups such as 4-H.
In addition to his career as a district forester, Mr. Churan had a deep love for fishing, hunting, camping, woodworking and all outdoor pursuits. He was an especially proud member of the Shoal Creek Muzzleloaders Club and was known for his marksmanship with muzzleloading rifles and other firearms.
His greatest pride and love was reserved for his family, friends and many canine companions he had throughout his life.
Mr. Churan is survived by his two daughters, Tana Churan (Tommy) Davis of Lincoln, ME, and Tienne (Michael) Kollars of Carterville; grandchildren, Anton Davis, Hunter Kollars, Jaden Kollars and Eliana Kollars; siblings, Tom (Stacey) Churan; sister, Deborah Churan; and beloved blue heeler dog, Vilia.
He was preceded in death by his mother; father; brother, George Churan; wife, Deborah Ruth Churan; mother-in-law, Ruth Chreighton Hanke; and father-in-law, John Delberg Hanke.
Memorial donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers.
