Jack E. Reel, 79, of Lena passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at the SSM Health Center in Monroe, losing a years' long battle with the progressive effects of a home explosion in 2007.  He was born to Elmer and Lucile (Blake) Reel on March 13, 1946, in Freeport, IL. He took over the family farming operation at the age of 16, following the death of his father, and graduated from Lena-Winslow High School in 1964. Jack lettered in three sports and was proud that his track relay team qualified for state his senior year, with a record that stood until 1992.  On November 25, 1972, he married Jeannie Crain, and together they raised three children: Tina, Jen and Tim.

Jack played softball for years, was a member of the Lena Lions, and coached the girls youth softball team. He was an avid Bears, Cubs and Illini fan. After farming, he worked at Dean Foods in Belvidere until the home accident forced him into an early retirement. During his years of recovery, his best buddy became a rescue cat, Bud. This from a man adamant about not having animals in the house! But those who knew Jack knew he was like a good cookie – a little crispy on the outside, but soft on the inside.

He is survived by his wife Jeannie; three children, Tina Brinkmeier (Brad Scheider), Jen Reel (Chris McMillan), and Tim Reel (Tami Bidlingmaier); three grandchildren,  Jeff Cheeney, Tamra (Jason) Brown, and Caleb Cheeney; five great-grandchildren, Alyssa Brown (Brian Dorsey), Carter Brown, Willow Brown, Braelyn Cheeney and Brinley Cheeney; one great-great grandchild, Wesley Charles Dorsey; sister, Teresa Reel; aunt, Pat Reel; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Mary Price on February 17, 2025; his father and mother-in-law, John and Maylene Crain; his brother-in-law Ed Crain, and his cat Bud.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

Per Jack's wishes there will be no services at this time.

The family is requesting if you wish to do a memorial please consider donating to the Friends Forever Humane Society in Freeport, IL, Green County Humane Society in Monroe, WI, or to your favorite charity.