John Allen Handel

John Allen Handel passed away quietly on February 18, 2024 at his home in Mesa Valley Estates, Mesquite NV. He was born June 21, 1924 in Winter Park, Florida to John Handel, German born and Loucrettia Nancy (Whaley) Handel of Tennessee.

John was raised in Ider, Alabama on a farm and enlisted in the military at age 17, right after Pearl Harbor was bombed.  He loved his country and dedicated his entire working career to preserving its freedom.  He served in the Pacific fleet on the destroyer USS Grayson during WWII as well as several other destroyers. He was in 13 battles during the war, one being the Guadalcanal. John also served in the Korean war and the Vietnam War. He was stationed in Bath MN, Honolulu, HI, Washington, DC, Brooklyn, NY and New Orleans LA. In his free time, he enjoyed being with his family, fishing with his children and playing golf. John was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Newark, DE.

John and his wife Evelyn, purchased a home in Mesquite, NV and lived there part time. They were married 69 years. After her death he moved back to Mesquite in 2019. He was known for his smile as wide as a barn door, he loved cracking jokes and teasing the ladies. While living in Sun City Village he became part of the notorious Split Rail Gang. He enjoyed morning walks, joy rides to the tops of the surrounding Mesas and drives to State Parks in the area for picnics. 

John loved being a part of the local Veteran’s Association and having his career highlighted as a dignitary in the local Mesquite Parade. He served his county for over 40 Years with dignity headed an amazing family supported his town of Mesquite and enjoyed friendships with other WWII comrades. His neighbors and friends loved the stories he told about his escapades. He taught us how to be grateful for his country and for the men and women who served and died for our freedom.  John loved to laugh and teased the ladies but mostly to make people smile.  

He is survived by his daughter, Anne Jeltema (husband Brian Jeltema), Cynthia Handel (Husband Raymond Skinner) and his son Bruce Allen Handel, (wife Leah Nunez) and other family members who we send our deepest sympathy and congratulations for supporting your father and caring for him throughout his life. 

To those of you who knew John you may send cards to Cynthia Handel 12071 North Quail Feather Blvd. Marana, Az. 85658

It was his desire to be buried at sea with his fellow shipmates in the Pacific. 

“May heaven grant you fair winds and following seas” and may sunshine warm your face and kindness warm your soul.