SPRINGFIELD – Joseph C. Chepulis, Sr., 78, passed away Thursday, February 22, 2024, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

He was born December 4, 1945 to Joseph J. and Sylvia (Petrokas) Chepulis. He married Mary L. Halberg on June 21, 1969; she preceded him in death on November 11, 1987. He later married Sharon Baker on October 28, 1989. He was also preceded in death by his parents; sister, Bernadine Dombroski; and daughter, Jodi Baker.

Joe was a US Air Force veteran. He was a former co-owner of Champion Garage, where he worked from 1963 until 2004. He was currently employed with the State of Illinois. Joe was a member of the Teamsters and Lithuanian American Club. Cars were his passion and he was an avid Chicago Cubs fan. He loved time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon; children, Steve Baker, Jessica Brinkman (Nathan) and Joseph C. Chepulis, Jr. (Melissa); grandchildren, Alyssa (Nick), Gretchen, Mary Grace, Austin, Madison, Joey III and Aaron; sisters, Mary Chepulis and Tricia Wade (Larry); brother, John Chepulis (Kathy); his beloved kitty, Micki and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, February 29, 2024, at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League.