Joyce Esther Stapleton

Joyce (Esther) Stapleton has fought her last battle on earth. She was born on October 9, 1954, and went to be with her Lord and Savior, November 15, 2022. Esther was preceded in death by her parents John and Joyce Bos. Esther’s legacy continues through her loving husband of 48 years, Patrick. Her daughter’s Shannon Stapleton, Jennie (Brian) Abrahamson and her four grandchildren: Kaytelynn, Jordan, Dakotah and Gianna. She is also survived by her siblings Errol (Sherry) Bos, Penny Bos (Mark Houk).

Esther was born in Jakarta, Indonesia and lived there until she was 1 ½ years old. Her family moved to the Netherlands when she was 3, then made the long journey to the United States and ended up settling in Wales. Wisconsin. Esther ended her working career at WCTC in Pewaukee working on the computer Help Desk for the school.

Esther and Pat met in eighth grade and started dating in their sophomore year of high school and became best friends and one another’s true love. They wed on August 10, 1974, in Genesee, WI. Esther and Pat remained in Waukesha County for most of their lives before relocating to Janesville, WI in July 2018. Esther and Pat held firmly to their vows and were an immense inspiration to their children and grandchildren as well as others who witnessed their sacrificial love.

Esther enjoyed camping with family and friends and being in nature. Esther loved her family, and her favorite way to spend the weekend was sitting on the front porch with all her loved ones nearby. The joy in Esther’s heart was easily viewed from the twinkle in her eyes. Esther was a friend, coach and mentor in her life and always willing to spend time talking and listening.

Esther’s faith was pivotal to her journey and especially during the last 25 years as she battled many health issues. Esther had a way about her that could soften even the most callous heart. Esther wanted her life to reflect the promises of Jesus Christ. Whether it was in songs or words spoken, Esther wanted to ensure everyone had a chance to know the love of the Savior in the same manner she had come to know Him. Esther faced many uphill battles amidst these last 20+ years of life, but she took every obstacle with grace and continued to push through when many would have caved in. Esther embodied the truth of Isaiah 40:29 “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”

Esther’s favorite scripture was John 14:15-31. Esther has left an imprint on many lives and so many people have touched Esther amidst her 68 years of life on this earth.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking any donations to be made to either the American Diabetes Association or the American Kidney Fund.

A visitation will be held from 12-1 p.m. on Friday, January 13, 2023 at Oakwood Church, 3041 Oakwood Road Hartland, WI 53029 followed by services at 1:00 p.m.. Pastor Bruce Jahnke will officiate. The family is being assisted by Henke-Clarson Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared at: www.henkeclarson.com.