Joel Brian Kaplan

Joel Brian Kaplan, 72, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on April 7, 2025. Born on August 21, 1952, in Milton, MA, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Joel was the cherished husband of Ellen (Rosenbaum) Kaplan, his devoted wife of almost 43 years.

Joel and Ellen made Framingham their home, where they started their custom window treatment business, The Shady Lady, in 1985, and where they raised their three daughters: Jamie (Matthew) Sussman of Sudbury, MA, Stephanie (Jesse) Menachem of Needham, MA, and Shaunna (Patrick) Gay of Natick, MA. He was the proud and doting Papa to seven grandchildren: Sophia (12), Jordan (11), Landon (9), Shae (8), Mckenzie (8), Dylan (6), and Madeleine (5).

Joel is also survived by his siblings, Robert (Michele) Kaplan, Carol (Tony) Battista, sister-in-law Donna (Richard) Lupatkin and brother-in-law Bruce (Melanie) Rosenbaum with many nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart. He was predeceased by his parents, Lester and Goldie Kaplan.

Joel grew up with a passion for sports. He fondly remembered his days playing baseball at Cunningham Park and as the field goal kicker for Milton High School, where he graduated in 1970. He then went on to earn his Bachelor's degree from Bentley College in 1975.

Joel’s early career was dedicated to his family-owned business, Howdy Beef ‘n Burger in Framingham, where he served as manager for many years. He always enjoyed working with his parents and siblings and proudly remembers his days there and the people he worked alongside.

One of Joel’s greatest joys was watching his children and grandchildren’s sporting events and recitals as they grew up. Whether it was cheering them on, driving them to practices, or offering words of encouragement, he was always their biggest fan. He enjoyed spending summers on the Cape with his loved ones, sharing laughter and creating lasting memories.

Joel’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was a constant source of strength, humor, and love, and will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral services for Joel will be held at Stanetsky Memorial Chapel, 1668 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA, on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at 10:30 am. Following the service, the burial will take place at Farband Cemetery, 16 Buxton Road, Danvers, MA. Shiva services will be held at the home of Ellen and Joel Kaplan Wednesday, April 9, 2025 from 4pm-7:30pm and Thursday, April 10, 2025 from 1pm-3pm and 5:30pm-7:30pm. Family and friends are invited to attend and pay their respects during this time of remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation.