Virginia Mae Haas

Virginia Mae Haas, age 85, passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Big Meadows Nursing Home in Savanna, IL.

She was born on June 10, 1940, in Wabasha, Minnesota, the daughter of Joseph and Betty (Murphy) Flies. Growing up, Virginia developed a strong work ethic, a trait she proudly learned from her parents and later instilled in her own children. During her high school years, she worked for her parents waitressing at Joe’s Cozy Cafe before graduating from Hanover High School with the Class of 1958.

On October 25, 1958, Virginia married the love of her life, William "Bill" Haas. The couple initially lived in Apple River before settling on their farm in Thomson, where they spent 38 wonderful years. Virginia had a long and dedicated career as a supervisor at International Paper in Clinton, retiring after 33 ½ years of service.

Virginia was a truly wonderful mother and a fantastic cook who loved canning the harvest from her garden. She took great pride in her flower beds and yard work. She and Bill loved keeping horses on their farm and always enjoyed traveling up to the Minnesota area, making it a point to attend the Kellogg Melon Festival every year. Virginia was a woman who "didn't mince words" and always told you exactly what was on her mind. Together with Bill, she was also an avid collector. Whether it was Longaberger Baskets, Precious Moments, or Beanie Babies, they were known to buy "two of everything."

She will be dearly missed by her three children, William Haas Jr. of Hawaii, Robert (Andrea) Haas of Thomson, Illinois, and Betty Jo Haas of Clinton, Iowa; two granddaughters, Jessica Haas, and Amanda Haas; three great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Joseph Jr. (Cris) Flies of Naperville, Illinois, and Richard (Kathi) Flies of Vermont.

Virginia was preceded in death by her husband, William Haas Sr.; her parents, Joseph and Betty; and her Brother, James Flies

Burial will be in Lower York Cemetery.