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Joel G. Hohenshelt December 17, 1939 – December 11, 2024 Late in the evening on December 11, 2024, Joel G. Hohenshelt was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, just six days before his 85th birthday. He was born to Arnold and Jessie Hohenshelt on December 17, 1939, along with his twin sister Gail, in Fresno, CA. Joel never met a stranger and lived a life full of purpose. An avid outdoorsman, he loved helping others and found great joy in sharing his passions. Joel was a talented athlete and earned the distinction of "All-City Football Linebacker" while attending Roosevelt High School. After graduating in 1957, Joel joined the California Air National Guard's 144th Fighter Interceptor Squadron, where he served as a Staff Sergeant and Shift Chief for Fire/Crash Rescue until 1961. During this time, he married Kathleen Jones in 1958, and together they raised three children: Jobi, Dana, and Toni. While managing family life, Joel also attended Fresno City College, earning an associate degree in Business Administration in 1962. Throughout his life, Joel remained active in both his career and community. He volunteered his time coaching Pop Warner football and serving as President of the Fresno County Sportsman’s Club. He was also Chairman of both the Woodchuck Trail Head Project and the Ershim Meadow Restoration Project, earning an appreciation award for his efforts. Joel’s career spanned various industries. He began with Red Triangle Oil Company in 1958, remaining there until 1981. He also served on the Board of Directors of the California Independent Oil Marketers and chaired the Western Liquid Gas Association’s Committee from the late 1960s to 1980. In 1981, Joel became a self-employed contractor. In 1983, he began manufacturing and representing roofing and paving products. Later, in 1988, he transitioned to a new career as a self-employed construction inspector, a role he held until 2001. Afterward, he developed and managed the family property until his retirement in 2023. In 1979, Joel married Jean Rusconi and became a loving stepfather to her two children, Stephen and Lorna. They were married for 45 years and were blessed with eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews. Joel's dedication to service extended beyond his career and family. He was a Lieutenant Colonel and the 1st Battalion Group 1 Commander in the Joint Service Honors Command, where he served as a Company Quartermaster/Weapons Officer. He participated in 961 services from August 2007 until his passing. For his work with the Honor Guard, Joel was awarded the Funeral Honor Guard Lapel Pin, which he proudly wore. Throughout his military career, Joel received numerous accolades, including the Cold War Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Service Ribbon, Leadership Service Ribbon, AP-3 Certification, Meritorious Service Award, Department of Defense Honors Ribbon with clusters, Drill Attendance Commendation, JSHC Service Ribbon, Longevity Service Ribbon, and the Emergency Service Training Ribbon. A celebration of Joel’s life will take place at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Chapel of the Light, 1620 W. Belmont Avenue, Fresno, CA 93728. A luncheon will follow at Fig Garden Swim and Racquet Club for family and friends.

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Joel Grady Hohenshelt

December 17, 1939 - December 11, 2024