A funeral will be held Monday, February 16, 2026 for 72-year-old William “Trader Bill” Benefiel, Jr., of Chester, Illinois, who passed away at 1:08 p.m., Sunday, February 8, 2026 at Missouri Baptist Medical Center, St. Louis, Missouri.
He was born March 20, 1953 in Anderson, Indiana to William and Wilma (nee McCurdy) Benefiel who both preceded him in death.
He is survived by seven children: Dawn Houk of Ellis Grove, IL, Michael (Angela) Benefiel of Anderson, IN, Brandy Lynn Houk of Willisville, IL, Carrie Ann Houk of Chester, IL, Bryan Houk of Chester, IL, Dustin (Christina) Houk of Chester, IL and Cory Houk Chester, IL; 19 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, and many “adopted” children and grandchildren.
He was also preceded in death by his wife, Vivian Houk; two children: William B. Benefiel III and Kelly Michelle Benefiel and a sister: Marsha K. Benefiel.
Bill was a construction worker, mechanic and owned Trader Bill’s in Chester, Illinois.
He was a member of the Eagles Club Aerie No. 3252 in Chester.
Bill enjoyed attending auctions, rebuilding vintage cars, camping and NASCAR.
He loved to spend time with his grandchildren and helping people whenever he could.
He was a United States Army National Guard Veteran.
Visitation will be 9-11 a.m. Monday, February 16, 2026 at the Pechacek Funeral Homes, Chester. Illinois
A funeral for 72-year-old William “Trader Bill” Benefiel, Jr., of Chester will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, February 16, 2026 at the Pechacek Funeral Homes, Chester, Illinois. Officiating: Pastor Tony Glaser.
Interment will be in the Evergreen Cemetery, Chester, Illinois.
Memorials may be made to Family Choice.