Farrell E. Benefiel

Farrell E. Benefiel, 99, of Freeport, passed away, Saturday June 21, 2024 at FHN Memorial Hospital. Farrell was born August 19, 1924 in Centralia, Illinois, the son of Jessie and Minnie (Bryan) Benefiel. He married Margaret Kalberkamp on February 23, 1947 in Centralia. Mrs. Benefiel passed away October 21, 2021. Mr. Benefiel proudly served his country in the US Army during World War II. Farrell was a member of the Centralia High School State Basketball Championship team. He then went on to earn his B.S. from Missouri State University and his Masters from Indiana University. He was a teacher for 28 years at Freeport School District 145, teaching Industrial Arts for 14 years and Physical Education for 14 years. Farrell coached Basketball, Football, Baseball, Tennis and Wrestling for the Freeport Pretzels. He was named man of the year in 1974 by the Freeport Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of Embury United Methodist Church (Freeport). He enjoyed fishing in his free time.

Surviving is his sons, Thomas (Nancy) Benefiel of Freeport, and Terry (Susan) Benefiel of Carbondale; three grandchildren, Justin, Seth, and Erin; also surviving are two great grandchildren, Owen and Olivia.

Farrell was preceded in death by his wife; sister, Ruby; and four brothers, Ray, Joe, Carl, and Earl.

Visitation 4:00 pm- 6:00 pm Thursday June 27, 2024 at Burke Tubbs Funeral Home, Freeport. Graveside services will be 2:00 pm Saturday June 29, 2024 at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Centralia, Illinois. Military services will be held at the graveside. A memorial has been established for Freeport High School Athletic Department in Coach Farrell’s memory.