Mariah Christine

March 4, 1991 - April 30, 2021

Mariah “Riah'' Christine of Oregon, Illinois, born prematurely on March 4, 1991, passed away unexpectedly in her home, April 30, 2021. Mariah was born in Elgin, Illinois to Loretta Sue Krekeler (Hunter) and David Allen Hallowell. Mariah was an amazing, beautiful, loving, caring, and empathetic soul. She enjoyed being with the people she loved, especially her children. Mariah would brighten any room with her infectious smile, legendary laugh and silliness. She is deeply loved and will be missed by so many friends and family. Mariah had a heart for the elderly, those less fortunate and stray animals. Her children were THE main reasons for getting up each day and facing life. Mariah was a graduate of Stillman Valley High School Class of 2009. She was a determined student who received the Marine Corp Scholarship Foundation award for Most Improved Student in 2009. She attended Rock Valley College in Rockford, Illinois in pursuit of a career in the nursing field, however her aspirations were unexpectedly yet pleasantly interrupted. Shortly after enrolling, Mariah gave birth to her first child, son Chance Michael Hallowell Krekeler, for whom she undertook a serious medical ‘chance’ bringing into the world. She was blessed further with daughter Adele Marie Christine Vaughan three years later. Mariah’s most-loved occupation was simply being a mom. She was a passionate animal lover, especially cats, and her children inherited that passion. Mariah was an avid fan of The Hunger Game movies and That 70’s Show. She found music soothed her soul and she enjoyed many genres. Mariah left an indelible mark on this world and she will forever live in our hearts. Mariah is preceded in death by paternal grandparents Evelyn and Kenneth Larson and maternal grandparents Christine and Edward Hunter. Survivors include parents Loretta Sue “MeeMaw” (Edward) Krekeler and David Allen (Tonja) Hallowell; son Chance Michael Hallowell Krekeler; daughter Adele Marie Christine Vaughan; sisters, Hannah Leigh (Joshua) DeYoung, Sarah Elizabeth (Anthony) Franklin; step-brothers Eddie (Meg) Krekeler, Dan Krekeler, Nick Krekeler; nieces and nephews Khalil, Emory, Ariel, Aaliyah, Tinsleigh, Maddix and Nora; step-nieces and nephews Charlotte, Nate, Oliver and Eloise; aunts and uncles Mary (Danny) Timmerman, Ed Hunter, Mark (Jessica) Hunter and Jason (April) White, beloved cousins Caleb (Hayley) Timmerman and their children Gracie and Cameron, Joshua Timmerman, Cody Hunter, Jamye Hunter, Justin Hunter, Andrew White and Alicia White and several other extended family members too many to name. Mariah also leaves behind her beloved cat Katniss. Both a Memorial Chapel Service and a Celebration of Life will be held in Trenton, Georgia. Details will be provided by the immediate family upon request. Flowers and cards may be sent in care of family at 216 McCurdy Road, Trenton, Georgia. In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation in Mariah’s name to your local animal shelter and/or supporting seizure disorder and mental health awareness events in your community. Spread the word: It’s OK not to be OK.