Joseph E. Belisle, Jr.

In the early morning on October 3rd, 2023, Joseph E Belisle Jr. passed away peacefully in his sleep after a brave battle against cancer.

Joseph, also known as Chopper Joe, was born September, 14, 1952 in Norwich, CT but spent most of his childhood growing up in Lebanon, CT. In his adult years he moved between Connecticut, Tennessee and Kentucky working as a heavy equipment operator. After work hours, he could be found riding his Harley, playing pool, playing the drums, surfing or just spending time with family and friends. He was a man known for his big heart, passion for helping others and no matter what he was doing or who he was with he was also having a good time. He had the ability to make anyone laugh and was certainly a prankster at heart.

Joe, outside of job or band titles, was a loving son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. He was predeceased by his mother Helen O. Belisle, his father Joseph E. Belisle Sr. and his son Harley J. Chamberlin. He left behind two children Shannon Massey (husband Scott) and Joe Belisle III, his sisters Patricia Bub (predeceased by husband Jack), Linda Jakoboski (husband Philip) and Doreen Dixon (partner Guy), his brother Glen Wiggins (wife Joyce), his many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, his friends that have become family and his lifelong companion Shelley Chamberlin. If there is one thing for sure it’s that Joe’s life was a one of a kind ride and we will all be grateful to see him on the other side and hear that well known laugh and his famous response “yea yea yea”.

His family would like to thank Hartford Healthcares end of life staff for making this part of his journey as easy as possible for him and everyone involved. Please join us to celebrate Joe’s life at the Willimantic Elks Club on Monday, October 9th, 2023 between 1-5 pm. In lieu of flowers we are asking donations be made to any cancer foundation you find fitting. Our hope is that there is a light at the end of the tunnel for families still fighting cancer and no one else should have to endure these losses.