Joshua J. Kogel was born on December 5, 1974, in Huron, South Dakota. Josh grew up on the family farm in Cavour.

After high school, Josh attended Mitchell Vo-Tech for linesman training. He returned to the family farm to help his family. He then started an excavating business, a job he was proud of. In 2023, he took over his family farm.

The job that Josh truly loved, however, was that of fireman. He had been a part of the Cavour Volunteer Fire Department since he was 18, with many years serving as the fire chief. Josh completed many projects to help the fire department, including filling out applications for grants and general maintenance on the trucks and equipment.

Josh had four children and two grandchildren.