John Anthony Hanell, 62, of Traverse City passed away unexpectedly from a stroke on Saturday, July 4, 2015 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Pontiac, MI.

John was born on November 28, 1952 in Traverse City to the late John and Avis (Schaub) Hanell. He married Patricia "Patty" Ernst on October 16, 1971 also in Traverse City. Together they lovingly raised three wonderful children.

John honorably served our Country in the United States Army. When he returned from service he worked at his family's excavating business and for Elmer's for 16 years. In 2005 he successfully went into business for himself.

John was a dedicated member at St. Francis Catholic Church and enjoyed helping out whenever possible. John was a good man that will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He will fondly be remembered as a wonderful loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

Surviving John is his wife Patty of 43 years, children Paul Hanell, MaryAnn (Todd) Wilcox, Jacqueline Hanell, grandchildren and great granddaughter, siblings Ralph Hanell and Patricia "Trink" (Jim) Hanes, and many other very special family members and dear friends.

Visitation will be held from 4-7pm at the St. Francis Catholic Church on Monday, July 13, 2015 with a rosary held at 7pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11am on Tuesday, July 14 also at the church with a visitation beginning at 10am. Burial will take place at Oakwood Catholic Cemetery in Traverse City. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Hanell family for medical expenses.

The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.