Charles “Chuck” Matthew Ullrich, 69, of Alexis, Illinois, passed away on August 11, 2026, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Illinois.
Chuck was born February 1, 1957, in Bakersfield, California, the son of Joseph W. Ullrich and Catherine M. (Schuman) Ullrich. He earned a business degree from Fresno State University.
Chuck married Donna Mae Penrose on February 14, 1995, in San Luis Obispo, California. She survives.
Chuck proudly served his country in the United States Navy from December 12, 1975 until November 16, 1979, serving aboard the USS Tautog Submarine. He spent his career with the California Department of Corrections, working as a correctional officer and correctional counselor before retiring in 2008.
Chuck loved sports, especially baseball and football. Whether high school or professional, he enjoyed following the game and was an avid fan of the San Francisco Giants and 49ers. He was an active member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Chuck loved Christmas, enjoyed cooking, and was always willing to help family and friends, lend a helping hand, and take care of those around him.
Surviving are his wife, Donna; his children, Michelle (John Ross) Koucouvelis of Galesburg, Illinois, Regina (Mitch) Olson of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Michael (Megan) Anderson of Bakersfield, California, , and Jayme (Michael) Crabtree of Wyoming; two brothers and three sisters. He is also survived by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Galesburg. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Bakersfield, California, with military rites. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
