Paul Sterling Taplin

Paul Sterling Taplin, Sr., 64, of Springfield, passed away at 7:35 a.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2015 at St. John's Hospice. Paul was born May 29, 1950 in Norfolk, Virginia, the son of William Sterling and Phobie Louise (Eanes) Taplin. He married Maria Janas on May 13, 1993 in Springfield. Paul retired in February of 1991 from the Illinois Army National Guard as a CW3. He spent 20 years active service including two years in Vietnam. In 2012, Paul retired from the Department of Veterans' Affairs as the Grants Manager. He oversaw VA Retirement Homes in Illinois and numerous other VA programs statewide. Paul helped numerous veterans returning from military service in all conflicts since Vietnam and was in charge of VA day at the State Fair. He was a member of VFW Post #755 and enjoyed NASCAR, bowling, and ping pong, especially with his friends at Camp Lincoln. He was preceded in death by his father. He is survived by his wife, Maria Janas-Taplin of Springfield; his mother, Louise Taplin of Springfield; four sons, Paul S. (Karen) Taplin, Jr. of St. Peters, MO, Shane (Lori) Taplin of Effingham, Michael (Dawn Johnson) Taplin of Edwardsville, and James E. Taplin of Springfield; three daughters, Dawn Gayton, Amanda Taplin, and Jordan A. Taplin, all of Springfield; several grandchildren; mother-in-law, Ann Janas of Springfield; sister-in-law, Donna England; brother-in-law, Mark E. Janas of Springfield; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 9, 2015 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Funeral Ceremony: 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home with Pastor Ron Waltrip officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors.