Joel B. Stensberg

Joel Stensberg, a child of God, died unexpectedly on Monday, January 13, 2025, at a Milwaukee Hospital surrounded by his loved ones.

The Christian Funeral Service for Joel will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, located at 930 E Florida Avenue in Appleton, with his life-long friend, Rev Joel Zank officiating. Visitation will take place at the church on Saturday morning from 9:00 AM until the hour of the service.

Joel was born in Port Washington on March 16, 1961, son of the late Rev. Burton Stensberg and Lucille (Lange) Stensberg who currently lives in Appleton. Joel grew up in Schofield, Wisconsin and had a joyful childhood playing with family friends. He graduated high school from D.C. Everest and attended the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire for his degree in photo-journalism. He met his wife Lu Ann in Wausau, and they were married in 1989. They eventually settled in Appleton with their three daughters. Over the past 10 years, Joel worked in business-to-business sales. He often worked from home and enjoyed spending the day with Buddy, a mini-Australian shepherd.

Joel held steadfast in his Christian faith throughout his life. He served the church in a various roles including as a choir member, church council member, and confirmation photographer. Joel showed his care to his family through his love of cooking. He got up early to prepare food for family gatherings and made special meals for his daughters when they visited home. He loved train history and was known for chasing locomotives. He jammed to classic rock in his free time and recently learned how to play the guitar. He was an avid photographer and was a member of the Fox Valley Camera Club. In social circles, he was a storyteller and always shared memories with a sense of humor.

Joel is survived by his wife, Lu Ann; his three daughters, Lydia, Siri and Erika; his mother, Lucille; and his sister, Julie and her family.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the medical care team in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit at Froedtert Medical Center in Wauwatosa, WI. Their unwavering gentleness and kindness in their care of Joel was appreciated throughout these difficult times. They would also like to thank Kathy’s House, a nonprofit organization that provided a welcoming home for Lu Ann to stay close to Joel during his care.