The amazing Allison "Ace" Leona VanHaelst entered her heavenly home on March 29, 2023. She was surrounded by her family and devoted parents, Emilie and David. Ace was greeted in heaven by her loving grandparents.

Born in Rockford on August 17, 2009, Ace grew up in rural Steward. An intrepid bug hunter, she enjoyed exploring the outdoors. She always found valuable rocks to add to her collection. Ace loved to create characters and give them life by authoring the stories that went with them. She liked reading graphic novels and was a most excellent video gamer. Her collection of stuffed animals, who were always considered her "friends," not toys, was considerable and well-loved.

Most of all Ace cherished her friendships. She never, ever met a stranger! Everyone was greeted with a sincere compliment and, to Ace, became a friend. We could go on and on because Ace loved life and everything it had to offer. She was independent, outgoing, and confident beyond her years. She loved every single living creature since she was little and never needed to be told to be gentle – she was naturally gentle. Ace already knew she wanted a career in marine animal rescue and rehabilitation at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

Ace wanted to make people smile more than anything. Between her "Fun Facts" and her duck jokes, she always did. Let us leave you with her favorite joke, an Original Ace Duck Joke: "What do ducks call their Constitution?" Answer: "The Duck-laration of Independence!"

Thank you, Ace, for living a life of such great love and joy.

Cremation care has been provided by the Unger-Homer Funeral Home, Rochelle. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Those who wish to remember her in a special way may make gifts to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, by visiting https://wish.org. Please visit www.ungerhomer.com to sign the online guest book.