Joseph M. Hargis

Joseph M. Hargis, 53, of Davenport, IA, passed away at 1:35 p.m. Thursday, February 22, 2024 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, IL.  

He was born on December 8, 1970, in Gary, IN, the son of Thomas E. and Stephanie B. (York) Hargis.   Joe was raised and educated in the Chicagoland area.  He graduated from York High School in Elmhurst, IL in 1989.  

Joe served in the United States Navy for 4 years.   

He married Melinda Lantz on December 12, 2014 in Davenport, IA; she survives.   

Joe worked at Jumer’s Casino in Rock Island in the Security Department for over 20 years.  He also worked at the Kennedy Space Center for 4 years as the Director of Protective Services.  Joe was an avid Chicago Bears, Chicago Whitesox and Notre Dame fan.  He enjoyed fishing, traveling and going on cruises with his family.  Joe was a trivia master and a wealth of knowledge.  He loved his beloved dog, Duchess.  

Surviving Joe is his wife, Melinda Hargis of Davenport, IA; one daughter, Kaylie Macklin of Davenport, IA; two sisters, Jennifor Acosta of Arlington Heights, IL, Rebecca Hamilton of Manitowoc, WI; his nieces, Rachel Hamilton, Kasi Acosta, Jenna Acosta; and his nephews, Cameron Acosta, Tommy Joe Hargis.  Also surviving are many special friends, who were more like family than friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Tommy Hargis. 

Cremation rites have been accorded.  A celebration of life will be held from 1:00-5:00 p.m., Saturday, March 30, 2024 at Bally's Casino & Hotel Event Center (777 Bally Blvd., Rock Island, IL 61201).  Memorials can be made to the Joseph Hargis Memorial Fund to help the family with expenses and his daughter’s education and can be left online below or sent to the funeral home.  McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL, is in charge of the arrangements.