David John Stapleton

David John Stapleton, of Erin, Wisconsin, passed away on April 21st at Aurora Medical Center - Hartford, surrounded by his loving family.

David was born on April 10, 1950, in Hartford, Wisconsin, to Geraldine (Swinty) and Glenway Stapleton. He spent his life rooted in the community he loved.

On August 22, 1970, David married the love of his life, Donna (Gabrysiak), at St. Clare's Catholic Church in North Lake. Together they shared 55 years of marriage, building a life centered on family, laughter, and simple joys.

David was a dedicated and hardworking man throughout his life. He began his career at Chrysler, where he worked from 1968 to 1981. He then continued his career at Balax, dedicating 31 years to the company until his retirement in 2012.

David was known for his love of the outdoors and his easygoing nature. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and cutting wood, and was always happiest around a campfire at Tuttle Lake sharing stories. A devoted sports fan, avid traveler, and "deer camp" regular, David embraced every opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories with those he loved. He lived by the motto: "Good Enough," finding joy in life's simple pleasures. He also gave his time generously to his children, coaching baseball and refereeing soccer, creating meaningful moments both on and off the field. Whether on family trips, enjoying pontoon rides and booze cruises, playing a good game of Euchre, watching the 4th of July fireworks light up the sky, or tending to his tomato plants each season, David made the most of every moment. Above all, he was a loving Papa who cherished time with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; his children, Kari (Jeff) Staus, Adam (Tiffany) Stapleton, and Eric (Lisa) Stapleton; and his grandchildren; Kyle, Mattisyn, Joshua, Aidan, Owen, Keaton, Ella, Gavin, Joel, and Avery. He is also survived by his sister, Sandra (Robert) Bulen, nieces, nephews and close friends who he considered family.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Geraldine and Glenway Stapleton, his parents-in-law John Gabrysiak and Katherine (Puhl Gabrysiak) Pfister, and brother-in-law Wayne Wianecki.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 27th from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., followed by a Mass at 5:00 p.m. at Saint Teresa of

Calcutta Parish in North Lake. A meal will follow.

David will be remembered as a faithful son of Christ, whose quiet strength and love for others reflected his deep and enduring faith.