Anthony “Tony” Howard Hensel, 71, of Syracuse, formerly of Huntington, passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, following a courageous 12-year battle with multiple myeloma cancer.
Tony was born on November 27, 1954, in Huntington, Indiana, to the late Jerry and Margaret (Spath) Hensel. He graduated from Huntington North High School in 1973, where he played football and wrestled.
Following graduation, Tony worked at Carnes Body Shop for over a decade before beginning a distinguished 30-year career with the Huntington Fire Department, where he retired as Assistant Chief. Tony truly loved his years as a firefighter and deeply valued the brotherhood he shared with his fellow firefighters.
In addition to his service, Tony spent many years working in landscaping and served as the caretaker of Mount Hope Cemetery. He was actively involved in the community, including the Huntington Jaycees, and dedicated much of his time to coaching youth soccer and baseball.
Tony had a deep love for the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter and especially enjoyed water skiing and snow skiing. He also attended Indian Rocks Church while wintering in Florida. Above all, Tony cherished his role as “Papa.” He rarely missed a game or event and took great pride in supporting and spending time with his grandchildren.
On July 5, 1975, Tony married his high school sweetheart, Janet “Jan” Carnes, in Huntington. They were blessed with an amazing 51 years of marriage.
Tony is survived by his loving wife, Jan Hensel of Syracuse; three sons, Tyler Hensel of Florida, Dru (Chelsea) Hensel of Warren, and Cole (Kim) Hensel of Syracuse; and six grandchildren, Adisyne, Zoey, Jackson, Rhys, Finley, and Mayve Hensel.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Myers Funeral Home, Huntington Chapel, 2901 Guilford Street, Huntington, Indiana.
A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. with one hour of calling prior to the service at the Myers Funeral Home Huntington Chapel.
Memorial contributions can be made out to the Multiple Myeloma Foundation in care of Myers Funeral Home, 2901 Guilford Street, Huntington IN 46750.
