Ferrell Strack

Ferrell Eugene Strack, 79, of Tolono, passed away on February 17, 2025, in Paxton, Illinois.

Ferrell was born on November 24, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, to Arthur and Marie Strack. Ferrell married Anita Marie Ochs on October 25, 1975.

Ferrell is survived by his daughter Amanda (Dave) Alagna of Philo, a son, Colby (Laura) Strack of Champaign, and his brother, Skip (Diane) Strack of Sidney; his grandchildren Adrian (Jonah) Johnson, Chase Strack, and Logan (Courtney) Wilson; and a great-grandson, Colson Johnson. Ferrell was also grandfather to Savannah and Avery Alagna.

Also surviving are his sister-in-law, Helen (Mike) Birtcher of Tolono and brother-in-law, Maynard (Cathy) Ochs of York, Neb. He is also survived by three nieces and their families. Ferrell was also a very special great-uncle to Cassidy, Haven, Caden, Quinn, Royce, Lylla, McKenna, and Chloe. He was a bonus grandpa to many people over the years, always present with an encouraging smile.

Ferrell was preceded in death by his beloved wife, an infant son, Ferrell Wayne, and his parents.

Ferrell graduated from Urbana High School in 1964. In 1966, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He spent two years serving in Germany, as a 64b20 Heavy Lift driver. After his military service, Ferrell built a long career with JM Jones/Supervalu, where he worked for 36 years before retiring in 2009.

Ferrell's love for racing began at a young age when he raced go-karts and continued throughout his life as an avid fan of dirt track racing. Over the years, Ferrell had the opportunity to meet some of his favorite racers—a passion that brought him great joy. Ferrell also enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren at their sporting events. Known for his big smile, Ferrell never met a stranger or buffet he didn’t like. Ferrell was a devoted member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Tolono.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Freese Funeral Home, 407 N. Bourne Street, Tolono, Illinois. The rosary will be recited at 4:30 p.m. at the funeral home. A funeral mass will take place on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 212 E. Washington Street, Tolono, Illinois, with Father Patrick O’Neal officiating. Burial will take place in St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Military rites will be accorded.

Ferrell’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Tolono Fire Protection District in memory of Ferrell. The family would like to thank the staff at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton, the Tolono Fire Protection District, and his special caregivers for the great care they provided to Ferrell.

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