Michael Ferris Sr., 72, of Urbana, passed away at 4:45 p.m., Friday, April 15, 2016 at Carle Foundation Hospital. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, April 23, 2016 at St. Boniface Cemetery in Seymour, Illinois, with Fr. Joseph Hogan officiating. The Urbana American Legion Post #71 will perform military rites.

Michael was born May 27, 1943 in Champaign, Illinois to parents Thomas and Anna Rita (Grennan) Ferris. He married Betty Lou Niles September 19, 1997; she survives. Also surviving are children, Gina Hardin, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Shannon Wales (Bobby), of Paxton, Illinois, Michael Ferris Jr, of Champaign, Illinois, stepsons, James Owen (Carol), of Champaign, Illinois, Daniel Owen (Hyun Hee Kim), of Carrollton, Texas, brother, Mark Ferris (Tina), of Villa Grove, Illinois, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Michael was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, John Ferris.

Mr. Ferris enlisted in the United States Navy Reserve before he graduated High School. After his honorable discharge in 1966, he began his career with the railroad, where he worked as a yardman. He was a member of the Urbana American Legion and the Urbana V.F.W.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Urbana American Legion Post # 71 or the Urbana V.F.W. Post #630. Condolences may be offered online at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.