Joseph K. Claflin, 74, of Godfrey, passed away on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at his home. He was born in Carrollton on December 25, 1950, to the late Jacob J. and Athalone Wayham Claflin.
On August 7, 1976, he married Ginger Gettings in Fieldon and she survives. He is also survived by a daughter Kristin (Devin) Pranger, two grandchildren Degion and Spencer Pranger, a sister Janine (Michael) Hankins, a sister-in-law Jennie Claflin, a brother James Claflin, several nieces and nephews, including Jarod Ridings a nephew he had a special bond with, and his best friend, Don Pressler.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, John.
Growing up on the family farm south of Eldred, Joe spent countless hours riding his horse, Venus, attending livestock auctions with his dad and riding along on family vacations to buy cattle from the Mead Ranch in Jackson, Wyoming.
His childhood pastimes ignited an entrepreneurial spirit at the age of 10, when Joe responded to a newspaper ad to become a salesperson for Bona Allen Saddlery. He didn't think to mention it to his parents, so you can imagine their surprise when a recruiter from the company showed up on their doorstep. The poor man was shocked to learn that Joe Claflin happened to be an eager 10 year old with big dreams.
The 1960s brought rock and roll, and started a life long enjoyment for Joe. He took guitar lessons, and played bass in various bands. Along with the music came rockstar clothes, and fast cars. Joe was quite a sight with his blond hair, and Nehru jacket stepping out of his blue Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396.
After graduating from Carrollton High School with the class of 1969, he embarked on several adventurous moves across the US, spending time in the mountains near Salt Lake City and along the Gulf Coast near Houston.
He finally fulfilled his childhood dream of a career in sales by creating Claflin Cartridge, Inc., a global manufacturing and import business. Recently, while reminiscing about his life, he stated that he always viewed himself as a farmer and was his happiest when mowing hay or on horseback chasing a stray steer through the woods in Dayton Hollow, south of Eldred.
Joe held many titles in life, from musician to farmer, but his favorite role was being a family man. He welcomed fatherhood joyously, and found endless delight in his grandchildren. He showed unconditional love, and always made sure to say "I love you."
The family will visit with friends on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 from 10:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m at the Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in Carrollton, IL. Private graveside services will be conducted at a later date. Memorials may be made to Dayton Cemetery.
Joe's family wishes to thank OSF Hospice Staff for their exceptional care.
