Meet Your Team
Michael Hogue
Founder of Simply Estates and a licensed real estate broker with RE/MAX Realty Associates. With more than 24 years of experience in real estate and over 40 years as a proud resident of Champaign, I have a deep connection to this community and the people who call it home.
I hold a Master’s degree in Science and Technology with an emphasis in Human Resources from Eastern Illinois University. My passion for Champaign-Urbana, combined with decades of real estate expertise, inspired me to create Simply Estates—to provide trusted, professional, and compassionate estate sale services that truly put people first.
Bruce Rainey
Also a founder, Bruce is a familiar face to many in the Champaign-Urbana community. He spent several years performing at the Sunshine Dinner Playhouse, later became the voice of JBJ Collectibles. He then managed the service department at Meijer for nearly 25 years before retiring. Now, as part of the Michael Hogue Team, Bruce is excited to bring his experience and community connections to Simply Estates, helping clients through every step of the estate sale process
Julie Williams
Julie Williams is an accomplished professional celebrated for over 30 years of expertise in the retail and customer service industries. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her exceptional commitment to customer relations and operational excellence. Beyond her professional life, Julie is a deeply valued member of the community. Her most cherished roles, however, are within her family, where she proudly serves as a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother
Kathy Wehrmann
Butch Williams
​Kathy Wehrmann brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to Simply Estates, combining her distinguished academic career with decades of experience in social work practice. As an Emerita Associate Professor at Illinois State University and an active leader with the National Association of Social Workers, Kathy has dedicated her professional life to guiding individuals and families through times of transition.
At Simply Estates, Kathy offers moving services and counseling designed to help clients manage both the practical and emotional aspects of downsizing or relocating. She specializes in supporting individuals who may struggle with deciding which belongings are most meaningful, as well as addressing the grief and emotional challenges that often accompany a move to a new home.
Her warm, empathetic approach ensures that every client feels heard, respected, and supported during one of life’s most significant transitions.