Joseph Henry Hansjon

Joseph (Joe) Hansjon died on Thursday, October 15, 2026 at the age of 75. Joe was a person who gave himself to his family, friends, church, and the homeless in Boston, with absolute joy and heartfelt commitment.

He was devoted to his church, the First Congregational Church of Norwood, where he served as a deacon from 2007 until 2024. Additionally, he decorated the church for holidays, volunteered for Vacation Bible School, sat in the sanctuary on the overnight shift on Holy Saturday Vigils, taught Sunday School, worked at the church fair and was one of the four original Stephen Ministers at the church. He received an Unsung Hero award in 2011, which is incredibly fitting for his life.

He spent many years working on the Generic Ministry van and loved meeting the people they met on the street. He knew their names, and many of their stories. Relationships he made with many of the people who were chronically homeless were treasured by him. He became a true friend to many of them.

Joe’s greatest joy was raising his four sons and later being an active grandfather to his five grandchildren. He never missed a game in any sport his sons played growing up, often driving friends and neighbors as well. When his grandchildren came along, he was a devoted grandfather, often taking them for special events or just a walk to Perks.

He had an encyclopedic memory and was the keeper of family history. He knew his way around all of Boston, very rarely referring to a map (but never a GPS – on principal).

He will be missed dearly by his sons, Thomas (TJ) Hansjon, Peter Zarrella, Joshua Hansjon and William (Billy) Sawyer, their wives and partners, Heidi Howard, Kristi Zarrella and Cassandra Sawyer, and his longtime companion, Judi Hansjon. He leaves a legacy of love for his grandchildren, Madison, Aaron, Jax, Otto and Daisy.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Tuesday, November 10th at 11:00 am at The First Congregational Church in Norwood, 100 Winter Street, Norwood, MA 02062. Lunch will be held following the service in Pingree Hall. All are welcome.