Joseph "Joe" Struck, Jr.

Joseph "Joe" Struck, Jr., a beloved husband, father, and proud grandfather-to-be, passed away on December 14, 2025, in Plano, Illinois, due to heart complications. Born on March 6, 1956, in Morris, Illinois, Joe made his presence felt in every endeavor he undertook and in every life he touched.

As a dedicated career man, Joe began his journey at Hornsby's Stores until their closing in 1984. This marked the beginning of a fruitful retail career that included time at Shopko, Frito Lay for 14 years, and ultimately, The Grocery Store he co-owned with his devoted wife, Gayla, in Earlville and Paw Paw. Joe's love for his work was evident; he made an impact wherever he went, demonstrating pride and respect in his professionalism. A man of many talents, he also worked at Farm N Fleet for 8 years and, later, The Fresh Market, where he traveled across the country as a field operations manager. Joe concluded his distinguished career at Target, retiring in 2021, a milestone that marked nearly five decades of dedication to his work.

Academically, Joe graduated from Morris High School in 1974, leaving a legacy as a baseball star. His achievements were not just confined to the workplace; in life, he was the essence of a family man. He cherished his family above all, never missing a sporting event to cheer on his children and sharing morning coffee clutches with his daughter, Vanessa. Joe took immense pride in recounting the cherished adventures of his life and reveling in stories that made his family laugh and smile.  Joe was thrilled that his children left Illinois to see the world, with Alex settling in Oregon and Vanessa in Florida.   

Those who knew him best would describe Joe as a great leader, serious yet filled with laughter and a spirit full of adventure. His intelligence and wit illuminated every room he entered, leaving lasting impressions on all.

Joe's most loved experiences include his daughter's wedding, traveling across the country with his wife, his trips to California, his trips to Florida to visit his daughter and son-in-law, and spending Christmas with his family. Joe was over the moon when he was told that Vanessa would be making him a grandpa.

Beyond his professional and family accomplishments, Joe enjoyed simple pleasures that brought him joy, such as watching Westerns, fishing, and mowing his lawn on his treasured John Deere. He took great satisfaction in maintaining his home, always seeking ways to make it uniquely his own.

Joe's love extended not only to his immediate family but also to those who have gone before him, including his parents and his in-laws, Glen and Jane Fuchs, as well as his faithful dog and best friend, Kasper.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Gayla, with whom he shared 37 wonderful years of marriage; his son, Alex Struck; fiancée Katelyn Hedden; daughter Vanessa; and son-in-law Justin Petrucci. The family is eagerly anticipating the arrival of Joe’s first granddaughter in April, a joyous occasion that will carry on his legacy of love and family values.

Joe Struck will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life will be celebrated not just in sorrow for his passing but in gratitude for the laughter, love, and memories he gifted to everyone around him.

A visitation in Joe's honor will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Plano, IL. Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the funeral home in Plano. For more information or to sign the online guest book, go to www.EighnerFuneralHomes.com

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home
3952 Turner Ave.
Plano, IL 60545
630-552-3022