Joel Scott Merchen, 29, of Springfield, IL, was chosen to transition from this world on Saturday (June 29, 2019).

Joel was born May 23, 1990, at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, IL, the son of Neal and Janet (Quitmeyer) Merchen.  He was preceded in death by grandparents Fred and Leona Merchen, and Ernest and Norine Quitmeyer. Joel is survived by mother Janet of Champaign; father Neal and wife Gloria Sax of Mahomet; two brothers, Brett Merchen of Elk Grove Village, and Todd Merchen and wife Liz of Cheltenham, England. Joel is also survived by a large extended family, with whom he enjoyed spending time and who loved him greatly.

Joel attended Champaign public schools Booker T. Washington Elementary School, Edison Middle School, and Centennial High School. He was a talented performer as a member of the vaunted Centennial Charger Drumline, and as a pitcher on both Centennial and Champaign Legion baseball teams.  Joel was the classic "crafty lefthander" who left many batters shaking their heads on their walk back to the dugout.

Following high school, Joel attended Waubonsee Community College and competed on the baseball team.  He later attended Parkland College, while working several years at Jupiter's at the Crossing. In 2018, he moved to Springfield and was currently employed as a Staff Assistant with the Salvation Army, Springfield.

Joel enjoyed sports of all kind, both participating and spectating.  He was interested in physical fitness, exercising diligently, cooking and preparing healthy meals, and all varieties of music.   His favorite pastime was participating in rough-and-tumble banter and humor with his brothers; and he possessed a keen sense of humor that left an impression on his many friends.

Joel's family asks that friends, families, and colleagues join us on Monday, July 8, for Visitation from 4-7 p.m. with A Celebration of Life service at 5:45 p.m. at Renner-Wikoff Chapel & Crematory, 1900 S. Philo Rd., Urbana.

We hope that you come prepared to share your special memories and stories of Joel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to The Salvation Army, Adult Rehabilitation Center, 221 North 11th Street, Springfield, IL 62703.