OREGON - Joel Donald Kapusta, born August 1, 1966, took his final bow on July 14, 2025, while holding his son, Brett’s, hand. A devoted husband, loving dad, proud grandpa, caring uncle, loyal friend, and a passionate advocate for workers and the arts, Joel leaves behind a legacy of strength, generosity, and unwavering love.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jennifer Nichols; his sons, Nicholas (Samantha Elmer), Brett (Keeley Overson), and Kyle (Collette Phillips); and his cherished grandchildren, Kaden, Ivy, Joel (JT), and a baby boy expected soon. He is also survived by his brother, Richard Kapusta (Jane); sister, Sharon Kapusta (Randy); nieces, Sunshine, Shawna, and Jenna, and their families; brother-in-law, Jace Nichols, along with Jace’s sons, Arthur and Jasper; and his best friends and partners in crime, Kurt (Chris and godson, Joey) Boyd, and Tracy (Julie and daughter, Casey) Hustad.

Joel was preceded in death by his parents, Elnor (Ver Hagen) and Donald Kapusta; and his parents-in-law, Annette (Scalissi) and Peter Nichols.

An electrician by trade, Joel dedicated his life to supporting working people and strengthening the labor movement. He proudly served as Assistant Business Manager at IBEW Local 159, where he advocated for fairness, dignity, and solidarity among his union brothers and sisters.

A fierce believer in justice and collective action, Joel, just newly diagnosed and just out of surgery, was proud to stand among thousands at the Capitol during the Act 10 protests, raising his voice in defense of workers’ rights. He never shied away from a fight when it came to protecting what mattered-and he stood firmly with those whose voices were being silenced.

He ended his professional career as an Electrical Reviewer at Trachte, bringing his deep knowledge, steady leadership, and down-to-earth character to every role he held.

Beyond his work in the trades, Joel was also a dedicated theatre enthusiast and contributor. He brought his talents to numerous groups throughout the Madison area, acting on stage as well as serving as stage manager, director, technical director, producer, and president with the Oregon Straw Hat Players over the years. Theater was a full family affair for Joel. Alongside his wife Jen, their children, and daughter-in-law Sami, he gave his all to the organization-creating community, art, and memories that will endure.

Joel was everybody’s superhero. If you needed something-help with a project, support in a tough moment, or just someone to show up-all it took was a phone call to Joel, and he’d be there. He had a way of stepping in, solving problems, and making people feel safe, seen, and supported. His strength and selflessness touched countless lives.

Joel’s presence in the lives of those who knew and loved him was profound. Though he never sought recognition or praise, he was larger than life in the eyes of those around him. Through his quiet strength, unwavering loyalty, and deep generosity, he earned the respect and love of so many. As the words from the musical ‘Big Fish,’ so perfectly express:

“But when you tell my story, And I hope somebody does, Remember me as something bigger than I was.”

The Kapusta family extends their heartfelt thanks to all friends, neighbors, and caregivers who provided support, love, and kindness during Joel’s illness. A special thank you goes to the UW Carbone Cancer Center and Joel’s dedicated oncology team, Agrace Hospice and his incredible Hospice nurse Allie, for their exceptional care and compassion, Tina Bastian, Kurt Boyd, and Tracy Hustad for providing overnight care so we could rest knowing Joel was in the hands of people who loved him dearly. Additional thanks to Deb Jenks and Kevin Hinker, Bonnie and Russell Hann and family, Stan Hill and Wendy Jones-Hill, and Pam and Tom Elmer for their unwavering support. Your kindness has been a source of strength and comfort.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Oregon Straw Hat Players (OSHP Building Fund), 201 Market St., Oregon, WI 53575, or online at www.OSHPonline.org, honoring Joel’s passion for theater and community.

A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1150 Park St., Oregon, at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, with a luncheon to follow. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Oregon

Funeral & Cremation Care

1150 Park St.

(608) 835-3515

Joel Donald Kapusta

August 01, 1966 - July 14, 2025

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