Megan McClave Strack

1978 - 2025

Megan McClave Strack

September 23, 1978 - April 24, 2025

It is with heavy hearts and incomparable grief that we share the sudden and tragic passing of Megan McClave Strack on April 24, 2025, due to injuries sustained in a violent assault.

Megan was born to Charles and Paula McClave on September 23, 1978, in Billings, Montana, and became the doted upon baby sister to brother Andy. Their family became complete with the birth of Graham two years later. From the beginning, Megan was a vibrant, exuberant child who possessed an enthusiasm for life. Her father recalls teaching her to ski and watching her speed straight down the mountain, arms fully outstretched, embracing the adventure and the adrenaline.

Megan's love of performing arts was clear from an early age. She loved dancing and grew proficient at ballet. To encourage her passion, the family turned part of a rec room into a mini dance studiocomplete with a mirror and barwhere Megan found joy in movement and music. That commitment and talent earned her the coveted role of Clara in the Alberta Bair Theater production of The Nutcracker at age 13.

And then there was her voice Her lifelong friend Erin described it: "Magical. When she sang you could see and feel her joy!" She started in the church choir, but by junior high her love of singing truly soared, as her talent emerged and was recognized by teachers and choirmasters. By high school, she was awarded membership in the elite choirs, including The Meister Singers, Jazz Choir, and The Westwinds, earning many featured solos within these ensembles. As an adult, she starred as Patsy Cline in the Billings Studio Theatre production, "A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline."

Her high school and college friends recall Megan's radiant soul, hilarious wit, and love for music. There were many adventures and road trips where they all sang together, reveling in the harmonies of friendship and life. With her college boyfriend Ben on guitar, the two performed in clubs and bars in Missoula to rave reviews. Megan graduated from the University of Montana with a degree in Music Education and began a job teaching junior high choir. Sadly, amidst all this promise and possibility, addiction became a growing aspect of Megan's life.

Megan met and fell in love with Joe Dukart, eventually marrying, but their relationship struggled and ended. In time, she rekindled a friendship with Jason Ferraguti, who had been a part of her friend group since high school. Their connection grew and on July 25, 2016, they welcomed Canon Allston Ferraguti to this world. At this point, Megan's addiction made her unable to care for a child. Jason and his mother, Marsha, created a stable, loving home where Canon has been nurtured and celebrated every day.

Megan attended rehab programs and met Jesse Strack in that environment. They were married in the summer of 2017.

Megan's life ended amidst her hardest chapter. The years leading up to her death were characterized by addiction and increasing domestic violence and control. As is the nature of domestic abuse, much of this was hidden from others. Megan became increasingly isolated from those with whom she had once been close. Still, she fought hard for periods of sobriety and was sober at the end of her life. Amidst her struggles, she continued to hold onto hope that one day she would be capable of responsible parenthood.

This once radiant, creative, and passionate woman is remembered by her lifelong friends, Jody and Erin, as "the best friend a person could have." She was a deeply caring soul you'd want in your corner, a light in this world. She had eyes that sparkled like brilliant blue sapphires. Megan had a special affinity for four-legged friends; over her lifetime many beloved dogs became part of her world. Roommates, friends, and family members recall that no matter who the dog belonged to, they always loved Megan best.

Megan was preceded in death by her mother, Paula McClave. She is survived by her father, Charles McClave, and wife Terese Buckley; her brother Andy Oswald and wife Charlie; her brother Graham McClave and wife Katie; her cousin Juli McClave; and her son Canon Ferraguti. Megan has been cremated and the family will inter her ashes with her mother's at a later date.

Megan's family would like to thank the staff at St. Vincent's Intensive Care Unit; the caring support of Stillwater Hospice; and the skill and expertise of Life Center Northwest.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of Megan can be made to an education fund for her son Canon at Yellowstone Bank. Mail donations should be made out to Yellowstone Bank with Canon Ferraguti Education Fund in the memo field, addressed to Yellowstone Bank, Attn: Courtney, 1511 Shiloh Road, Billings, MT 59106. Phone donations through Yellowstone Bank can be made at (406) 869-4181, and speak to Courtney.

Megan's final act in this world was one of deep generosity. As an organ donor, her gift is bringing profound hope and life to others.