John "PePaw" Hanselman

Obituary: John Alan Hanselman (1945–2025) John Alan Hanselman, a cherished son, devoted husband, loving father, brother, and "Pepaw" to many, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, at the age of 80.

Born on February 2, 1945, in Newark, New Jersey, John was the son of the late Robert "Pop-Pop" Hanselman and his late birth mother, Alliene Dorothy Dye. After Alliene's passing, Robert remarried "Grandma Helen," and John was blessed to gain three amazing siblings: Fred, Hilda, and Helen. Robert later married his third wife, Molly Hanselman, who would become John's surviving step-mother. Known for his keen intellect and love of math, he skipped a grade in high school and continued taking college courses to complete his senior year. After graduation from Miami Florida Military School in 1962, he worked in construction with his father, including a memorable trip to Brazil where he truly enjoyed connecting with the local people.

John proudly served his country in the Army National Guard. Enlisting in 1965, he completed training at the Quarter Master School in Fort Lee, Virginia, as a Unit & Organization Supply Specialist. He rose to the rank of Sergeant (Co C 2nd Bn 102d Armor in West Orange, N.J.) and proudly served as a Tank Commander, earning awards including the Rifle M1 Sharpshooter and Pistol CXal.45 Marksmen ribbons.

Following his service, John resumed a civilian occupation as Market Manager for Acme Markets in New Jersey. After relocating to Texas in 1975, he dedicated ten years as an Iron Construction Manager with Brown and Root, earning several certifications. He was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship-Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers - AFL-CIO. His career pivoted after the passing of his first wife. Following his marriage to Beverly in 1991, he held management positions at Western Auto, Pep Boys, and Firestone until his cancer diagnosis led to an early retirement.

For 23 years, John faced a challenging battle with Multiple Myeloma, enduring numerous treatments and surgeries since his diagnosis in 2002. He was truly the strongest, most resilient, and sometimes wonderfully stubborn man around, demonstrating an unwavering spirit that was an inspiration to all who knew him.

💖 An Expression of Gratitude

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Gateway Hospice Providers, especially the wonderful and caring nurses; Jessica, Hannah, and aid, Kristen. These ladies helped beyond the family's expectations, showing a kindness, compassion, and love that extended far beyond their professional duties. They will always be considered “Family” We love you with all of our heart! You are precious angels in the lives that you care for. Thank you!

A Life of Faith and Service

John showed devotion and dedication through his 25 years of love and servitude to his church, Crowley Assembly of God. He served on the church board, volunteered as a regular door greeter, and never missed the Saturday morning men's prayer group. Both he and Beverly faithfully volunteered with the monthly Grief Share support group, and they loved helping to decorate, plan, and set up the monthly gatherings for the Crowley Classics.

John's personal passions included hunting, chess, and gardening. In his later years, he pursued his dream hobby of doing his own antique sales. He would travel to many places, including estate and garage sales, purchasing and then selling his wares at the Burleson Antique Mall, where he developed many special friendships. He was also an avid Dallas Cowboys fan, leading to a good-natured but fierce football rivalry with his sister, Hilda Rafal, an ardent Eagles supporter.

John's life was defined by the love he gave and received. In 1973, he married his beautiful, first wife, Martha, known as “Marcy” They had two amazing daughters, Christina Gill and Erica Contino. After her passing, John was blessed to find the second love of his life, Beverly Hanselman, his best friend, devoted partner and beloved wife of 35 years. Affectionately known as Mimee by her grandchildren, Beverly and John built a large, loving family together.

His greatest joy in life was his family, and he took immense pride in his role as a father and Pepaw. The sound of his grandchildren calling him Pepaw was music to his ears. Due to his battle with cancer, he was often limited in the physical activities he could share, but he cherished getting updates, pictures of their various activities and games, and made a point to be present for every major milestone, including graduations and weddings.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Beverly "Mimee" Hanselman; and his five children: Dwayne Vestal (preceded in death by his wife, Christina Vestal), Debbie Bradburn (husband Greg), Christina Gill (husband David), Steve Vestal (wife Jennifer), Erica Contino (husband Chris).

He is also survived by his step-mother, Molly Hanselman; his siblings: his sister, Hilda Rafal (husband Jon); his brother, Fred Hanselman (wife Kim), his brother, Russell Hanselman (wife Jordan). He is further survived by his sister-in-law, Lee Hanselman; his brother-in-law, Steve Campbell; several cousins; and numerous extended relatives.

John was preceded in death by his father, Robert "Pop-Pop" Hanselman; his birth mother, Alliene Dorothy Dye; his first wife, Martha Hanselman; his siblings, Bob Hanselman and Helen Campbell; and his daughter-in-law, Christina Vestal. 

John leaves behind an incredible legacy of love through his 14 treasured grandchildren:  Allyssa Russ (husband Nate) and Allison Poppenhusen (husband Mitchell), Jeremy Vestal and Jacqueline Vestal, Nicholas Vestal and Michael Vestal, Tyler Horton, Clay Contino and Kendall Contino, Andy Adams (wife Kylie), Jack, and Sam Adams, Austin, Blake, and Easton Gill.

He was the proud great-Pepaw to eight great-grandchildren: Noah, Cody, and Levi Russ; Oliver and Penelope Poppenhusen; Willow Horton; Dahlia Woolridge; and Casper Vestal.

A Viewing will be held on Thursday, December 11th from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Skyvue Funeral Home, 7220 Rendon Bloodworth Rd, Mansfield, TX 76063.

The Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, December 12, 2025, at Crowley Assembly of God, 721 S Crowley Rd, Crowley, TX 76036.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Crowley Assembly of God (Missions Support) or St.Jude in John's memory.