Joan Karen Campbell

Joan Karen (Grgich) Campbell, 73, of Madison, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital surrounded by prayers and love.

Born June 2, 1952, in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, to the late Emil and Ruby Grgich, Joan graduated from Menomonee Falls High School in 1970 and went on to earn her Nursing Degree from Milwaukee Area Technical College. She dedicated forty years of her career to neonatal, hospice, and in home care. She was loved by her fellow nurses, who would become her lifelong friends. She was loved by her patients for her dedication, and compassion.

On January 22, 1972 she married the love of her life Bruce Campbell, and together they had their one child Kevin Campbell. Sadly Joan lost Bruce in 1982, and she built a life for Kevin and herself with love, laughter, and adventure. She was a fierce advocate not just for Kevin, but for family, and friends as well. She was proud to be an Army mom, and supported Kevin through three tours in Iraq, and Syria.

In 2018 Joan moved to Madison, Wisconsin to be closer to Kevin and his wife Heather. She was happy to be a Great Aunt to Heather’s nieces, and nephew. She will be remembered for giving the best gifts, and never missing a holiday or birthday. During the last years of her life she became a mentor to her many caregivers who spoke highly of the learning opportunities, and wisdom she provided. She prided herself on making sure that the next generation of nurses, and caregivers would be as exceptional as she was.

She was proceeded in death by her parents Emil, and Ruby Grgich, her husband Bruce Campbell, and her aunts and uncles. Joan is survived by her son Kevin (Heather) Campbell, sister Patricia (Matt) Stiever, brothers David Grgich, and Randal (Craig) Grgich, and many nieces, nephews, as well as great nieces, and great nephew.

We would like to extend our gratitude to the staff at Evansville Manor, and St. Mary’s Hospital for helping Joan’s passing to be peaceful, and to her many caregivers in Madison, Wisconsin.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 31, 2026 at Evert-Luko Funeral Home, 170 Warren Avenue in Hartland, Wisconsin 53029, with a Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Nurses Foundation of Wisconsin to help with Joan’s love of the nursing profession.https://www.wisconsinnurses.org/donate-now/