Joseph R. Bertrand

Joseph was born on December 10, 1935, in Chicago, IL, the son of Victor and Winifred (Belcher) Bertrand. He married Patricia Houghton on August 27, 1960, at Blessed Sacrament in Springfield.

Joseph graduated from Cathedral Boys High School in 1953. He went on to attend Springfield Junior College for two years before continuing his studies at Quincy College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. Joseph later pursued graduate studies at the University of Illinois Springfield, obtaining a master’s degree. Faith played a central role in Joseph’s life. He was a devoted member of Christ the King Parish in Springfield and had been a proud resident of the community since 1965. Joseph took great pride in his educational accomplishments and, above all, in raising his family.

Joseph was actively involved in several local organizations, including the Knights of Columbus Council 364, the St. Vincent de Paul Society, and the Holy Name Society. A proud veteran, he served in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1957. Professionally, Joseph dedicated thirty years to public service as an Internal Revenue Agent with the U.S. Department of the Treasury, retiring in 1990. In his leisure time, he enjoyed tending to his yard, reading, staying active, playing poker, and listening to folk and Irish music.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Father Gene Bertrand CSV, and Thomas Bertrand.

Joseph is survived by his wife, Patricia; sons, Jim, Mike (Sue), and Mark Bertrand; daughters, Kathleen Bertrand and Mary (Gary) Wallbaum; five grandchildren, Jessica (Brandon) Harper, Nicole (Jake Beil) Bertrand, Kyle Wallbaum, Kelly Bertrand, and Allison Bertrand; and one great-granddaughter, Madison Harper.

Visitation & Mass of Christian Burial: The family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Christ the King Parish, 1930 Barberry Dr., Springfield, IL 62704, until the time of the Mass at 11:00 a.m. with Father Alex McCullough officiating.

Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, 2001 N. 1st St., Springfield, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christ the King School for tuition assistance, or Christ the King Parish for Mass.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL.