John Patrick Hassler, 80, of Lincoln passed away peacefully Sept. 8, 2024, surrounded by his family.
Born in Friend on Sept. 3, 1944, John was the beloved son of John Francis and Elaine Elizabeth (Becker) Hassler. He grew up in a close-knit community, attending St. Stephens Catholic School and Exeter High School, before continuing his education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the Lincoln School of Commerce.
On Oct. 15, 1966, John married the love of his life, Sharon Kay (Hall), and for 58 years together, they built a beautiful family, raising three children: Kathryn, Rebecca, and John Michael. John served his country with pride as a member of the U.S. Army from December 1966 to 1969, spending a memorable year stationed in Korea from 1967 to 1968.
A dedicated civil servant, John retired after 43 years of service with the State of Nebraska, working for both the auditor's office and the department of revenue. He was deeply respected by colleagues and county officials alike, not only for his work ethic, but for his generosity as a mentor and friend. His dedication was recognized by being named an Admiral in the Great Navy of the State of Nebraska, an honor he treasured.
John’s passions extended beyond his professional life. He was an avid woodworker, known for spending countless hours in his workshop crafting furniture and projects for those he loved. His meticulous attention to detail was unmatched, and there wasn't a tool he didn’t own. When he wasn't in the shop, you could find John working in his yard or garden, a true farmer at heart, or enjoying the simple pleasure of watching the birds from his deck.
Family was John’s greatest joy. He delighted in attending his children’s and grandchildren's events, whether it was sports, dance or horse riding. His pride in them was evident to all who knew him. John’s kind and generous spirit was always at the forefront – he was the first to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, whether family, friends, neighbors or strangers.
John was a proud member of the American Legion and a parishioner at the Cathedral of the Risen Christ, where his faith was an important part of his life. His legacy of love, kindness and hard work will live on in the hearts of his family and all who were fortunate to know him.
He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon; his children, Kathryn (Eric) Seiboldt of Omaha, Rebecca (Matt) Kempston of Lincoln, and John “Mike” Hassler of Lincoln; six adoring grandchildren, Cassandra Seiboldt of Lincoln, Jessica Seiboldt of Bentonville, Arkansas, Chelsea (Reece) Hyland of Lincoln, Cole Kempston, Addison Kempston, and Paityn Hassler, all of Lincoln; sister-in-law, Kay Hassler; nephew, Riley (Katy) Hassler; sister-in-law, Sandra (Jim) Horne; brothers-in-law, Roger (Susan) Hall, and Randy (Stacey) Hall; along with many cherished in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Elaine, and his brother, Tom.
The family wishes to thank the wonderful doctors and nurses at Cancer Partners of Nebraska and Bryan East Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion.
John’s life was a testament to service, love, and kindness. He will be dearly missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A Mass of Christian Burial was Sept. 12 at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Exeter with Father Brendan Kelly presiding. Organist Agnes Anderson and Cantor Bill Murphy accompanied the congregation singing “On Eagle’s Wings,” “Prayer Of St. Francis,” “One Bread, One Body,” “Be Not Afraid” and “Amazing Grace.” Casket bearers included Riley Hassler, Cole Kempston, Reece Hyland, Darin Hassler, Jeremy Becker and Dan Eckles.
Military graveside services were conducted by the Exeter American Legion – William Sullivan Post 218 and the Nebraska Army Honor Guard at the Exeter Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Exeter American Legion or St. Stephen Catholic Church. Arrangements by Farmer & Son Funeral Home.
