Westfield - Joseph L. "Joe" Birkner, 59, died peacefully Tuesday morning, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Chicopee, he was the son of Joseph W. Birkner and Judith M. (Bean) Gregory, and the stepson of Robert R. Gregory. He grew up in Springfield and was a 1984 graduate of Classical High School. He lived in West Springfield for most of his life before moving to Westfield in 2020. Joe was one of the founding members of the Springfield Mercedes-Benz dealership, where he proudly served as the manager of the Parts Department. He was known for his dedication to his work and for taking pride in serving his customers and colleagues. Prior to his years with Mercedes-Benz, he worked at Fathers & Sons in West Springfield. Joe loved spending time with family and friends on his boat at Camp Overflow in Otis, and he enjoyed the sunny beaches of Florida. He leaves two daughters, Allison and Karen Birkner; a son, Joseph Birkner and his wife Aliesha; one brother, Jeffrey Birkner; two sisters, Kimberly Miner and Laura Gregory, and their families; his significant other, Julie Leavitt; and his former wife, Susan Birkner. He was the proud grandfather of seven grandchildren: Adriana Birkner, Jackson Gribbins, Charlotte Gribbins, McKenna Birkner, Ryleigh Malanson, Annie Gribbins, and Emma Malanson. Visiting hours will be held at the West Springfield Curran-Jones Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 21st, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. A private burial will take place in St. Thomas Cemetery. For online condolences and information, please visit curranjones.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Shriner's Hospital, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104.