Obituary
Joseph Daniel Phelps
Joseph Daniel Phelps, 49 of La Crosse, passed away at home surrounded by love on Sunday, September 15, 2024.
He is survived by his daughter Jayden Gilman (Ethan Tappendorf), grandson Elliot and granddaughter due in November, his life-partner, Kristy Mossman and children Alex (Catherine) Mossman, Zach (Taylor) Mossman, grandchildren Madelyn, Link and Harper, and Isabelle Mossman (Ty Robinson). He is also survived by his mother Julie (Barry) Siddons, siblings Tom (Gina) Phelps, Teri (Chris) Banks, Marshall (Molly) Siddons, Holly (John) Berger, Eric Siddons, David (Tonya) Siddons, Rebecca O’Neill, Ben (Amy) Schmeckpeper and Bob (Kayla) Schmeckpeper, several nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel “Elwood” Phelps, stepmom Carmen Phelps, and his maternal and paternal grandparents.
Joe was born and raised in La Crosse. He lived the majority of his life on French Island and graduated from Logan High School in 1993. Joe’s passion was music. When he was young, he spent hours in his father’s basement plucking at the guitar. He was self-taught and became a very talented musician. During and after high school, Joe played bass in local bands. He spoke fondly of his time with the band Natural Descent, where he got to be a rockstar with his good friend, Nick. His love for playing guitar stayed with him throughout his whole life. He was proud of his collection of guitars that were affectionately nick-named “his ladies” by Kristy.
Joe also enjoyed motorcycles-specifically Harley Davidsons. Him and Kristy took a trip to South Dakota where Joe was excited to be near Sturgis during bike week. They also took road trips to St Louis and Milwaukee. Joe loved all Wisconsin Sports, and was able to travel to see several Brewer games; the most recent of which was last month. His beloved Brewers got the “W” at the last game he was able to attend in-person at what he called his happy place, American Family Field.
Joe will be fondly remembered for his amazing sense of humor, his quick wit, and his ridiculously random trivia knowledge. He was loved by the Bluffview Gang from childhood and the Island Posse throughout his teen years. He will be missed for his sweet, kind demeanor, his gentle soul, and his boisterous laugh.
A Celebration of Life open-house will be held on Wednesday September 25th from 2:00pm-4:00pm at the Gathering Place, 133 Mason Street., Onalaska, WI. The family also invites guests to Neuie’s Vogue after 5pm to share stories, laughter and love. Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.
I’m so sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. We had some fun times back in the day. Thinking of you all. Big ((( hugs)))!!!
My heart goes out to Kristy as you navigate through this difficult time. Treasure your many memories of Joe and may they bring you comfort. Praying for you and family. Hugs
You and your family are in my prayers.
I am so sorry Kristy! Hugs to you and your family during this difficult time – <3 ACP
My thoughts are with everyone and am so sorry to hear of Joe’s passing! All of my memories of Joe bring a smile to my face.
Joe was a wonderful man and a great friend. Not too long ago he was playing a riff or a song and I asked him to play the trooper from iron maiden ..and a few weeks later he did it. I thought that was pretty cool… back in the younger days I always remember walking over to Bluff View with Tom and Joe and others to take the school bus. Also remember trading skateboards with him quite a bit. One of them stood out with the pink grip tape with a skull. Heavy hearts my brother. You definitely will be missed. Till I see you on the flip side.. Rest easy my good friend.
Thoughts and prayers going out to family and friends