Fatal Vehicle Accident

A fatal, single-vehicle traffic accident occurred at 7:22 p.m. Saturday, September 26, 2020 on County Road 16 in northern Wayne County, east of CR1100E.

Steven M. Houchin, 69, West Salem, was eastbound in a 2011 Nissan, entered a ditch on the south side of the road, traveled through the ditch and exited, traveling northeast across the highway. The Nissan entered a ditch on the north side of the road, struck a culvert, and came to rest in a cornfield. Houchin was pronounced deceased at the scene as emergency personnel from Wayne County responded to the scene to assist the Illinois State Police.

The Olney Gazette, (IL) – Thursday, October 1, 2020

Steven M. Houchin, 69, of West Salem, Illinois died on September 26, 2020 in Wayne County, Illinois. Steve was born on December 7, 1950 in Searcy, Arkansas, the son of Darrell Houchin and Kathleen (Runyon).

Steve was an outgoing, friendly person that knew no stranger. He didn't delay joy and was carefree and easy going. Steve was an avid golfer and fisherman who also enjoyed playing the guitar and singing. He served in the US Navy as a radar/sonar operator. Steve graduated from United Electronics in Louisville, KY with an associate degree in Electronics.

Steve is survived by his daughter, Jessica Houchin of St. Louis, MO; brother, Larry (Ruth) Houchin of Carbondale, IL, and several nieces and nephews.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Richard Lee Houchin.

A Graveside Service will be held for Steve at 1:00 PM on Friday, October 9, 2020 at Haven Hill Memorial Gardens in Olney, with Full Military Rites to be performed at the Graveside. Interment will follow the service.

Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home, Olney – September 30, 2020