Having problems removing outside door handle

[Banshee06]

I am trying to remove stock door handles, got the bolts undone but cannot get the last 1/2 inch of hook of the handle tried for about hour.
Does anyone have any help?
Thank you

 

[04Cobra03]

 

[Banshee06]

I had take loose the door latch assembly bolts out to get enough slack to pull the rod out of the door handle.

 

[Banshee06]

Got er done.