James William Hauter

James William Hauter, 92, of Metamora, IL, passed away at 8:17 pm on Monday, January 20, 2025, at his residence.

He was born on May 7, 1932, in Peoria, IL, to Benjamin and Dorothea M. (Peck) Hauter. He married Shirley E. Burnett on April 17, 1955 in Cambridge, IL. She passed away on February 14, 2014.

Surviving are his two daughters, Lynne (Gregory) Johnson of Dickinson, ND and Jennifer (David Poling) of Metamora; daughter-in-law, Jane Hauter of Metamora; five grandchildren, Darren (Rachel) Johnson, Bethany (Garen) Demery, Kristin Johnson, Brooke (Jacob Malik) Poling, and Ben (Faela Pierce) Poling; and three great-grandchildren, Quinn, Kaysen, and Cade Demery. He was preceded in death by his parents and son, Joseph Hauter.

Jim graduated from Morton High School in 1950. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Millikin University and a Masters of Arts degree from Bradley University. Jim began a career in education teaching science at Metamora Township High School. After obtaining his Master's degree, Jim served as principal at both McLean and Atlanta High Schools and then as superintendent at Octavia High School and Metamora Township High School. Jim always enjoyed learning and teaching and remained a lifelong educator.

Jim was ordained as a Southern Baptist minister in 1993 and enjoyed sharing the gospel with others, especially youth. He served as Youth Pastor at Laramie Street Baptist Church and was a member and leader in the Metro Peoria Baptist Association. Jim was director of Metro's summer camp for many years - alongside Shirley who was a camp counselor - and delighted in having multiple grandchildren attend the camp. Jim enjoyed preaching at local churches and had the honor of giving a sermon at Ignite Church shortly after his 90th birthday.

Jim attended Ignite Church Peoria where he regularly led Bible studies. He delighted in attending a church that actively serves people of all ages.

Jim deeply loved his family and was equally adored by them. He was a devoted husband to the love of his life, Shirley. Jim was a great person to talk to and always made sure the people he loved felt special. He and Shirley made it a priority to attend their grandkids' events and often told others about their accomplishments. Jim enjoyed sending handwritten notes to express his love. He was a funny and charming person to be around and was quick-witted with a joke or two. Jim was very proud of and grateful for his family and friends and wore the title "Grandpa Jim" with pride.

The family would like to thank Dr. Brad Stoecker, Michelle Stephens, APN and Cara Fitzgerald, RN for their care and support. Also thank you to OSF Hospice, specifically RN Pam.

A Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, February 2, 2025 at Ignite Church in Peoria, IL with Reverend Noah Lee and Reverend Joe Gardner officiating. Visitation will be held from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Mason Funeral Home Metamora Chapel and also one hour prior to his service on Sunday at the church. Cremation rites will be accorded following his service. Burial of Ashes will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Metamora at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Ignite Church Peoria Youth, 3707 North Dayton Avenue, Peoria, IL 61614 or to St. Jude Children's Hospital, 530 NE Glen Oak Avenue, Peoria, IL 61637. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

Ignite Church Peoria Youth
3707 North Dayton Avenue, Peoria IL 61614

St. Jude Children's Hospital
530 NE Glen Oak Avenue, Peoria IL 61637