Loren John McCullough Jr., 60

Red Lake Falls – Loren John McCullough Jr., age 60, formerly of Strandquist, passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Sanford Hospital in Thief River Falls.
Loren was born on January 17, 1966, in Crookston, the son of Loren J. McCullough Sr. and Laurie (Engen) McCullough. He was baptized on February 25, 1968, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Newfolden, and later confirmed at Bethesda Lutheran Church in Strandquist.
Loren attended school in Strandquist and worked various positions. He became a father at a young age, devoting himself to caring for his family. Eventually, his independent streak and love of adventure lead him to become a trained semi-truck driver. Loren’s career took him many miles down the road. He enjoyed taking pictures coast to coast of our beautiful country and even traveled into Canada. Over the years, Loren made many friends; fellow truck drivers who kept him company his many hours on the road. When driving took a toll on his health, Loren studied for and received his GED at age 50.
A student of the human condition, Loren enjoyed television, movies, and music which taught him about life, other places and ways of being. Loren was a fan of professional wrestling, a passion which he passed on to his children and grandchildren. Loren valued the vintage and antique. He loved to tinker with engines and was always dreaming of the next restoration project.
A life-long animal lover, Loren was dedicated to his dogs. He found great happiness in spending time with and spoiling them. Above all, Loren was devoted to his family and preferred to spend his free time with them. Loren appreciated the freedom of the open road and the simple pleasures that brought him happiness.
Loren is survived by his three children, Brandon (Lisa Lepretre) Quick, Andy McCullough, and Brittany (Taylor Kehoe) McCullough; eight grandchildren, Darrius Smith, Breona Smith, Brahdyn Quick, Gavyn McCullough, Sequoia Laughery, Brooklynn Hughes, Bradley and Wyatt Kehoe; his parents, Wayne and Laurie Stromgren; sisters, Nancy McCullough and Nicole (Chad) Thompson; and nephews, Matrix, Jerricho, and Cyrus.
He was preceded in death by his father, Loren McCullough, Sr.; grandparents, Eldor and Pearl Engen and Patrick and Selma McCullough.
Much beloved, Loren will be remembered by his family and friends for the memories they shared and the miles he traveled throughout his life.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 6, 2026, at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, with lunch to follow.
Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls.
Burial will follow the lunch service at Viking Cemetery in Viking.