August Shelby “Babe” Hansmeyer

August Shelby “Babe” Hansmeyer

August Shelby Hansmeyer, affectionately known to most as “Babe”, of Norman, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home on September 17, 2025, surrounded by his devoted wife of 61 years, Darlene, and all five of his children. He was 83 years old.

Babe was born on March 24, 1942, in his childhood home on the family farm in Norman, Oklahoma, to August and Elsie Hansmeyer. Growing up on the farm instilled in him a lifelong appreciation for hard work, family, and faith—values that would guide him throughout his life.

He graduated from Norman High School in 1960, where he was honored to serve as president of the FFA during his senior year. Soon after, he proudly enlisted in the Army National Guard before transferring to the United States Air Force, where he faithfully served his country for six years before being honorably discharged.

On July 17, 1964, Babe married the love of his life, Darlene Jones of Iowa. Together, they created a marriage that was a true partnership—rooted in faith, love, and deep devotion to one another. Their life together was rich with hard work, laughter, music, and above all, family.

Babe’s professional journey began with several years of service at Tinker Air Force Base, but his heart called him back to his roots. He took over his father’s dairy farm, which he ran faithfully for more than 20 years before selling it in 1986. Never one to shy away from learning new skills, he later worked at Moore Norman Vo-Tech, where he spent 20 years mentoring and supporting others until his retirement in 2009.

Beyond work, Babe was a man of many interests and talents. His curiosity and eagerness to learn kept him engaged with the world around him—whether it was exploring new technology, programming computers, or mastering the art of flying remote control airplanes. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, hunting, playing horseshoes, and tending to his garden with the same care he showed to his loved ones.

Music, however, was one of his greatest passions. Whether strumming the guitar, playing the piano, or singing, Babe filled his home with song and joy. Music was the heartbeat of his household and a gift he shared freely with those he loved.

Most of all, Babe was a family man. His greatest joy came from being present for his children and grandchildren. He never missed a single game, concert, or performance—always the loudest cheerleader and the proudest supporter in the room. His family knew they could count on him for encouragement, love, and unwavering support.

Babe was preceded in death by his parents, August and Elsie Hansmeyer, and his brothers, Billy and Kenneth Hansmeyer. He is survived by his loving wife, Darlene; his sister, Eloise Green; his children, Ricky Hansmeyer and wife Lori, Marti Bushore and husband Jason, Natalie Vandegrift and husband Jev, Stacy Hansmeyer, and Crystal Morris and husband Chris. He is also survived by his 14 beloved grandchildren—Kiersten, Colton, Allie, Braden, Taylor, Jordan, Angela, Blake, Addie, Jaclyn, Gracie, Bella, Emma, and Hayes—and his precious great-grandson, Lawson.

A celebration of Babe’s life will be held at Tribute Memorial Care in Norman, Oklahoma, on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., with burial to follow at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends and family are invited for a time of visitation on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Tribute Memorial Care.

Babe’s life was a testament to faith, family, and love. He will be deeply missed, but his laughter, music, and unwavering devotion to those he cherished will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.