Judith DeFrees

  Judith DeFrees, 85, of Streator passed away Thursday, May 9, 2024 at her home in Streator.

  Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 A.M. Tuesday, May 14th at St. Michael the Archangel Church, Streator. 

  Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, May 14th at the Solon-Telford Funeral Home, Streator.

  Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Streator.  Pallbearers will be Bill Abry, Michael Abry, Nathan Hovious, Craig Russell, Dan Stoudt and Mike Stefan.

  Born September 26, 1938 in Streator she was the daughter of Louis and Lois (Schroeder) Amell.  She married Paul DeFrees on August 20, 1960.  He preceded her in death on February 16, 2019.

  She is survived by daughters, Debra Pohlod of Streator and Paula (Deborah Ekborg) DeFrees of Rancho Mirage, California; grandchildren, Lexi Pohlod and Casey Danko; one brother, Barry Amell of Manville; and two fur grandbabies, Louie and Gus.

  She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband and a son in law, Ron Pohlod.

  Judy graduated from Streator High School in the class of 1956.  She later attended Illinois State University where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in education. She taught various grade school levels before retiring from Streator High School as a Physical Education Teacher and Coach. 

  Born and raised in Streator she lived there her lifetime.  Both she and her husband Paul were life-long Chicago Cub fans often venturing to Scottsdale, Arizona for Spring Training.  She had a passion for cruising and saw a large part of the world via cruise ships over the past 45 years.  She also enjoyed a good time at the casino and would light up when she would win. 

  She was a member of the former Immaculate Conception Church and currently belonged to St. Michael the Archangel Church.  She and her husband were also active through the years with the Knights of Columbus and the V.F.W. 

  Memorials may be directed to the charity of the donor’s choice.

  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.solontelford.com

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