Joseph Kenneth Beltz

Joseph Kenneth Beltz, age 87, of Energy, Illinois, passed away Thursday, January 19, 2023 at his home in Energy, Illinois.

Joseph was born August 29, 1935 in Carterville, Illinois, a son of Elwin and Vera (Phillips) Beltz. He married his longtime partner Maria (Pena) Beltz August 13, 2021.

A proud US Marine Veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, he also served as an instructor in the Marines. He worked as a cemetery sexton for more than 25 years and had also worked in Kentucky and Illinois coal mines including Zeigler Coal and Murdock

He is survived by his wife Maria Beltz of Energy, IL; four children, Sunday Cissell; Joseph Victor Beltz, Dolly Pierson, and Barry Prog; two step-daughters- Gladys Silva and Blanca Rodriguez; six grandchildren; two great grandchildren, two sisters, Delores Anabbott and Vera Moses; and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Vera Phillips and Elwin Beltz, and one grandchild.

Private graveside services will be held at Willowrest Cemetery located on Willow Street in Carterville with Pastor Mario Ramos. Military rites will be presented by the Herrin and Carterville VFW and American Legion Posts with assistance from the US Marines. Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin is assisting the family with final arrangements.