SPRINGFIELD, IL – William J. Speis, Sr., 74, passed away Thursday, January 28, 2021, at his home.

He was born April 22, 1946, to Anton and Esther (Adkins) Speis. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Anthony "Tony" Speis; and sister, Kathryne "Kay" Potter.

Bill honorably serviced his country in the US Air Force. He retired from Henry Nelch & Son's. He was a driver and over all mechanical maintenance. Bill always was willing to learn the many pieces of equipment. He was known by several as the guy with the red stocking cap, Billy Speis. He didn't know a stranger and was liked by all.

Bill loved to cook for his family and have get-togethers. It brought him great joy and his smile said it all. He was also a tinkerer at heart. He tinkered around on small engines; there was never an engine that wasn't going to get fixed by him. He had a passion for fixing lawn mowers and always giving one to someone in need. He was a very giving person. Most of all, Bill was devoted to his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by those who loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Speis; children, William Speis, Jr., Shaun (Barry) Tobias, and Aaron Speis; grandsons, Cody Speis and Alec Tobias; brothers, Leo Speis and James (Karen) Speis; sister, Mary Ellen Usuriello; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of a funeral service at 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 2, 2021, at Vancil-Murphy Funeral Home, with Reverend David Beals officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery.

CDC guidelines will be followed. Social distancing and masks will be required. Attendance is limited to 50 people at a time.