Joan Ellen (Anderson) Campbell

Joan Ellen Campbell, of Stoughton, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, at the age of 65.

Born on October 10, 1959, Joan was the beloved daughter of Clifford and Elaine Anderson. She grew up in Stoughton, where she lived most of her life, surrounded by family, friends, and a strong sense of community.

Joan married the love of her life, Larry Campbell, on April 19, 1980. Together they built a beautiful life and family, raising three sons she was so proud of: Shawn (Amber) Campbell, Dan (Abby) Campbell, and Steven (Kate) Campbell. Joan’s greatest joy was being a grandmother to Alexis, Kaitlyn, Mariah, Tobie, Rylee, Kiptyn, Paisley, and Colton Jo. Her love and care extended far beyond her immediate family — she had a deep bond with her many nieces and nephews, each of whom she cherished dearly.

Joan is survived by her husband Larry, her sons and their spouses, her grandchildren, and her brothers Phil (sister-in-law Pat) and Davey. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clifford and Elaine; her brother Denny (and sister-in-law Judy); her sister Nancy (and brother-in-law Dave Julseth); and her nephew Craig Anderson.

Throughout her life, Joan was known for her kindness, humor, and selflessness. She had a special way of making everyone feel welcome and loved. Joan worked at Coachman’s Golf Resort during and after high school, Pamida until its closing, and Home Savings Bank until early retirement, she was known for brightening her customers’ days with a smile and a laugh.

In her early years, Joan enjoyed spending time with friends on the weekend and bowling both in singles and couples leagues. She took great pride in her Norwegian heritage. She especially enjoyed baking traditional pastries and preparing her famous lefsa each year with her beloved nieces. Her home was filled with joy, the smell of home-cooked meals, and her cherished collection of elephant knick-knacks.

Above all else, Joan's passion was her family. She found happiness in the smallest moments—baking birthday treats, sharing stories, and carrying on family traditions with her grandchildren and loved ones.

A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on October 25, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Stoughton VFW. All who knew and loved Joan are welcome to attend and share in the laughter, memories, and love that she gave so freely.

A special thanks to all the UW hospital nurses and doctors who provided her care throughout her battle with cancer.

Joan’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched — a reminder of the beauty of a generous heart and a life well lived.