Joseph Shafel

Joseph B. Shafel of Cascade passed away on February 18, 2024 at the age of 82.

Joe was born on February 19, 1941 in Antigo to the late Joseph R. and Margaret (Marx) Shafel. He grew up on the Shafel family farm near Antigo. He attended and graduated from the local school system. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point. After graduation, he worked in the fast-food industry, managing restaurants in several Wisconsin cities. He made a career change in 1971 and entered the data processing field, where he was employed as a systems analyst with the Borden Corporation in Plymouth, WI.

Joe was baptized in the Catholic church and lived his life faithfully. Some of Joe’s leisure time was taken up with volunteer involvement in the credit union movement, serving on the board of directors of his local credit union. The rest of his spare time was taken up with motorcycling. He enjoyed long distance touring and camping with his motorcycle. He also taught motorcycle safety classes in the University of Wisconsin Vocational College System.

Joe is survived by a sister Mary (Wallace) Gelhar of Wausau, brother David Shafel of Rhinelander, sisters-in-law Judy Shafel of Shiocton and Bonnie Shafel of Antigo, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents Joseph and Margaret, Joe was preceded in death by brothers Melvin and James Shafel, nephew Allen Shafel, and great niece Kayla Shafel.

A Memorial Mass for Joe will be held on Friday, March 1, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Ss. Mary and Hyacinth Catholic Church in Antigo with Very Reverend Joel Sember officiating. Visitation will take place prior to the service at the church from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Burial will take place on a later date at Queen of Peace Cemetery.