Joseph Warren Wages

Joseph “Joe" Wages, passed away peacefully on January 6th, 2026 in Tampa, Florida at age of 79. Joe was born on September 30, 1946 in Breese, IL to Jess and Verna Wages. Joe graduated from Canton High School in 1964 and was drafted into the United State Air Force in 1967. While stationed at MacDill Air Force Base in FL he went on a blind date, set up by a mutual friend, and met the love of his life, Dorcas Peckrul. They were married three short months after their introduction and two weeks later, he departed to serve our country in Da Nang Vietnam. After his tour as a Senior Staff Sargeant, the newlyweds were briefly stationed at Homestead Air Force Base in FL where they started their family. Upon their return to Tampa, Joe began his career as a Longshoreman until his retirement in 2008.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Dorcas Peckrul Wages and his daughter, Rachel Lee Wages. He is survived by his daughter, Rebecca (Bryan) Sullins and son, Joseph (Stephanie) Wages Jr. and his grandsons, Brandyn Sullins, Tyler Sullins, Ryan Sullins, Cameron Wages, and Alex Wages.

Joe was a man of few words but held a wealth of love for his family and friends. He expressed his love with gift giving, good-natured teasing, and carefully chosen affirmations. He will be remembered as a fantastic father, a loving grandfather, a superior fisherman, an exceptional card player, an above-average dart player, a respectable bowler, a generous baker, and an all-around good-natured man.

In honor of Joe, the family encourages others to cast a line and catch a fish or two, play some card games (ideally “Oh Hell”, “Pitch”, “Cribbage”, or “Poker”), and celebrate the precious memories of moments shared with this dearly loved man.