Lilas Fern (Bucher) Portner passed away April 23, 2022 in Freeport, Illinois.  Lilas was born October 10, 1927 to Fern (Strohecker) and Charles Bucher, joining her big brother, Dale, in Freeport.  Her October 10 ^th birthday would later be shared with her first child, Georgia, and granddaughter, Jordan.  After graduating from Freeport High School, she went to work for Rawleigh until starting a family.  Many years later, after raising her family, she worked at Micro Switch until her retirement.

Lilas met Loyal Portner at a farm where they both boarded horses, and they were married on July 12, 1947.  Lilas devoted the rest of her life to raising 5 children and doting on 10 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.  Family was everything to her, and she never missed a birthday, anniversary or other holiday celebration or greeting.  Family Christmas gatherings were especially important to her.

Lilas took great pride in her yard and could be found outside into her 90s tending to the beautiful trees, shrubs and flowers, as well as decorating for all the holidays.  Lilas loved nature and cherished her beautiful surroundings.  Later in life, she enjoyed traveling to see her far-flung family in Canada, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Alaska, Montana, and even a trip to Australia.

Lilas is preceded in death by her husband, Loyal, son, John, brother, Dale, and niece, Linda.  She is survived by her children, Georgia (David), Mary (Peter), Katherine (Keith) and Tom (Sue); daughter-in-law, Jean; grandchildren, Anthony, Liz, Christopher, Diana, Piper, Samara, Jesse, Kelsey, Dale and Jordan; great-grandchildren, Owen, Evan, Wesley, Lily, Landon, Tiffani and Maggie; nieces, Lilas and Sandy, and nephew, Robert.

Lilas was an incredibly kind, loving, resilient and strong person who has left a lasting impact to all those fortunate enough to have been a part of her life.

A memorial gathering will be planned for a later date.  Arrangements are under the care of Walker Mortuary in Freeport.  Notes of memories can be left on the website or sent to Mary Chance, 559 Chatham Terrace, Madison, WI 53711.

In honor of Lilas' love and commitment to animals of all kinds, especially the dogs she had in her life, memorial contributions can be made to Friends Forever Humane Society, 966 Rudy Road, Freeport, Illinois 61032.