Joseph Kasprzak's Obituary
Joseph Stanley Kasprzak
June 17, 1934 – May 17, 2025
Joseph Stanley Kasprzak, a lifelong educator, devoted husband, loving father, accomplished musician, avid golfer, fly fisher, and Rotarian, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025.
Born in West Rutland, VT on June 17, 1934, Joe dedicated his life to education and the betterment of his communities. He was a graduate of Castleton State College, obtained a master’s degree from Boston University, and a Certificate of Advanced Study from the University of Vermont. Joe was a veteran of the United States Air Force serving from 1954 – 1956.
Joe began teaching in Woodstock VT and coached the ski team. After a brief sabbatical working for the local paper in Springfield VT, he moved into school administration and served in Wallingford, VT and Middlebury, VT before moving to St. Johnsbury, VT in 1974. As Superintendent of Schools in St. Johnsbury for over 20 years, Joe led with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the power of learning. His commitment to the students, teachers, and families of Vermont left a mark on his community. He and Pat retired to Dunedin, FL where they enjoyed great times with the friends they made in the Lake Highlander and Mease Life communities.
On August 16, 1958, Joe married the love of his life, Patricia O’Brien of Rutland, VT, and they enjoyed 67 years together. Joe and Pat were two halves of a whole, a team in every sense of the word. Together, they built a warm and loving home where they raised four children, surrounded by laughter, kindness, and mutual respect. Joe's family was the heart of his world, and time spent together, especially family celebrations with their extended circle, brought him immense joy. Joe will be remembered for his gentle wisdom, deep devotion to those he loved, and the joy he spread through his music and his work.
Music was a thread that ran throughout Joe’s life. He began playing the accordion as a young boy, had a local radio show segment as a teenager, and played with the White Eagles Polish Orchestra with his father. His music brought joy to many — from family gatherings to impromptu concerts — and even in his final days, he was still playing for others.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Kasprzak of Dunedin, FL and by their four children Trish Marcell (Phil) of Castleton, VT, Joseph Kasprzak (Lil) of East Burke, VT, Johnna Bond (Chuck) of East Montpelier, VT, and Katy Reeves (Randy) of Clearwater, FL; his grandchildren Phil Marcell III (Gretchen), Bradley Marcell (Amy), Nathan Marcell (Jackie), Eric McHugh (Jessica), Kevin Bond (Taylor), Andy Bond, Anna Mozingo (Henry), Joseph Mozingo, and Christen Mingione (Nick); his great grandchildren Addison, Jorie, Kelsey,
Phil IV, Raegan, Ivy, Parker, Haven, and Reeves; sister-in-law Mary O’Brien Brooks (Bob) and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a daughter Mary Lynn and his parents Joseph and Mary (Pyenta) Kasprzak of West Rutland VT.
He will be interred, with military honors, at Bay Pines National Cemetery, St. Petersburg Florida at a later date. Donations may be made to the West Rutland Public School Music Program or the St. Johnsbury Public School District in Joe’s honor.
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