Rick Trachsel, 70, of Sullivan, formerly of Chenoa, passed away in his home on October 1st, 2023 after a long battle with cancer.
Rick was born March 14, 1953 in Fairbury, Illinois, son of Roy Trachsel and Jeannette Seeman. He married Diane Sallade in 1978. She survives.
Also surviving is his daughter Becki (Justin) Heinen of St. Peters, Missouri, sons, Keith (Jill) Trachsel of Fairbury, Illinois, and Eric (Lattie) Trachsel of Anaheim, California. Grandchildren; Tyler, Travis, Lilli and Evie Trachsel, and Hughes and Haven Heinen. Also surviving is a sister Beth t. Huddleston (Bill Ellis) and a brother, Kevin Trachsel. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Julie.
Rick graduated from Chenoa High School, 1971, and continued his education at Illinois State University where he received his Doctoral degree in December of 1998. He was lifelong educator and principal.
Captain Rick enjoyed life to the fullest whether it was on a boat, driving one of his Jeeps, being a DJ, playing volleyball and pickleball, or going to concerts and traveling with his wife Diane.
His retirement was complete as he was able to spend his winters in Florida, summer at the lake and being the biggest fan at his grandchildren’s sporting events.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the “Special Olympics of Illinois” or a charity of your choice.
A celebration of life will be held at “The Depot in Chenoa” (500 N. Division St.) on Sunday October 22, from Noon – 3 p.m. A private family burial at the Chenoa Township Cemetery will be held. Reed Funeral Home, Sullivan is in charge of arrangements.
