John R. Hohenshelt

Johnnie Ronald Hohenshelt The World's best Dad on his final approach
Johnnie R. Hohenshelt, affectionately known by his call sign "Ho" - husband, father, Pop Pop, fighter pilot, entrepreneur, toy executive, and all-around extraordinary human - died peacefully at home on November 3, 2025, surrounded by his family, just the way he wanted. Born under the big skies of Lance Creek, Wyoming, on May 30, 1940, Ho learned early that open horizons invite bold adventures. During his childhood, he worked alongside his father drilling water and oil wells, and with his mother at her café. The influence of his mother, father, and grandfather formed the basis not only for his many stories and "Ho-isms," but also for his lifelong work ethic and insight into personal relationships. John left home for the University of Oklahoma, where he joined the Air Force ROTC and was later commissioned after graduation. While attending fighter pilot training, Ho met the love of his life, JoAnn, and they were married four months later. Then he promptly went to war. As a fighter pilot in Vietnam, Ho earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Force Commendation Medal, and multiple Air Medals. Later, Ho traded flight suits for business suits- moving to Boston to attend Harvard Business School - and began building a life and family with JoAnn. Ho moved up in the World quickly, becoming Vice President of Operations at "Santa's Workshop", also known as Tonka Toys. Growing weary of the cold and wanting his own "shop", he bought Paragon Industries and moved his family to the warmer climate in Dallas. He was a true servant leader, approaching leadership with the same integrity, steadiness, and wisdom that once guided him behind the controls of his F-100. At home, he was simply Ho, Dad, and Pop Pop - titles far more important than any he held at work. He and JoAnn raised six children: four of their own - John, Charlie, Kelly, and Amy - and two of JoAnn's young cousins, Teri and Mike, whom they welcomed into their home during their teenage years. Ho also leaves behind 13 grandchildren and a good number of young people who wandered into his orbit - all of whom lovingly called him Grandpa. Ho was a master storyteller, a "Pied Piper" of kids, and a dog whisperer who taught his family to chase big dreams, take risks, and face life's turbulence with grace and grit. Most importantly, to choose JOY every day. Throughout 59 years of marriage, both he and JoAnn knew they were deeply loved; their marriage remains a testament to love and honor. He will be deeply missed and joyfully remembered every time someone asks, "How you doing?" - because we will always hear his trademark response in our minds: "Well, I'm nearly perfect in every way and the good news is, I am improving."
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to either of the charities and organizations list below.
Equest's Hooves for Heroes https://equest.org/veterans-program/ Offers equine-facilitated counseling, learning, and therapies-provided at no cost to first responders, active-duty military, veterans, and their families. Please consider making a donation to honor John's memory.
Patriot Hunters https://patriot-hunters.myshopify.com/ Provides hunting and fishing trips for veterans and first responders. Please consider making a donation in honor of John's memory.