Athena K Farrell

Athena Kay Farrell, 65, of Ottawa, passed away on Thursday, October 22, 2026 at her home.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 28, from 4:00pm until 6:00pm at Ottawa Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 6:00pm. Cremation rites will follow the service.

Athena was born on July 4, 1961 in Streator, IL to Kyriakos and Laverne (Benkendorf) Vavaroutsos. She married the love of her life, Michael Farrell on May 22, 1983 at All Saints Greek Orthodox Church in Joliet. He preceded her in death on May 2, 2024.

Athena worked for Krogers as well as for her family's business, Koolies Banquet Hall. She helped as a bartender for many years. In her free time, she loved to play softball and was a life long Cubs fan. She was an avid baker and she enjoyed playing the slots on occasion. More than anything, she was the rock of the family. She loved spending time with them, she never missed an opportunity to attend a child or grandchild's events, and she loved them so much. She was a member of Shoreline Boat Club.

She is survived by her children, Ryan Farrell, Kevin Farrell, and Kyle (Kaitlyn) Farrell; her grandchildren, Hadley and Payson Farrell; and her brother, Angelo (Vicki) Vavaroutsos.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Kyriakos and Laverne; her husband, Michael; and her brother, Lewis Vavaroutsos.

Memorial contributions in her honor may be directed to the family.