Hardy Hokanson, 77

Hardy Laverne Hokanson, 77, longtime resident of rural Ashby, left this world on February 7, 2013 at his home.

He was born September 7, 1935 in Eagle Lake Township to parents Hardy A. and Gladys Hokanson. In his youth, Hardy was moved around a great deal. He spent his school years at many residences including Clitherall, MN, Yakima Valley and Cherry Grove, WA as well as Moorhead and Vining, MN before graduating from Henning High School. Thereafter, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served eight years in the 3rd Armored Cavalry during the Korean War, and patrolled the Czech and German border.

He was married to Carolee Faye Torgerson on June 6, 1959 and they relocated to the Twin Cities. He received his electronics engineering degree from Northwestern and then worked for the Honeywell Corporation in their Aeronautics Division, developing guidance technologies. In 1977, he returned with his wife and two children to the Eagle Lake Township area, worked maintenance for 3M in Alexandria, and built a home where he would spend happily the rest of his days.

He was a longtime member of Grue Lutheran Church and spent many years tending to its care and upkeep as custodian.

An avid outdoorsman, he was never happier than when he could be on the lake waiting with rod and reel, or come fall, up in his deer stand waiting patiently with his bow. A skilled archer, he eventually found fulfillment in the construction of bows; a discipline for which he ultimately developed a breathtaking degree of craftsmanship and artistry.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Carolee; son, Frederick; daughter, Bente’; grandchildren, Courtney and Taylor; great-grandson, Matthew; and his canine companion, Duke; as well as the Jan Paulson family and the Dennis and Randi Hockert family.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 12 at 1:30 p.m. at Grue Lutheran Church in rural Ashby, with the Rev. Carol Olson officiating.

Military rites were by Pederson-Tripp American Legion Post 357, Ashby.

Interment was at Grue Church Cemetery in rural Ashby.

Condolences may be sent at www.GlendeNilson.com.

Arrangements are with Glende-Nilson Funeral Home in Ashby.

A00009B2013FB13

Tags: obituaries

Sign the guestbook

Comments posted on this page do not reflect opinions of Forum Communications Company. Forum Communications Company does not endorse and is not responsible for any statement, opinion, advice given or made. All replies are subject to approval and must follow Forum Communications Company guidelines concerning statements of libel, personal attacks or defamation of character. Replies in the "Talk About It" section that criticize a person by name may not be posted, unless that person is openly involved in a public issue. Comments written in all capital letters or bold print will not be considered for inclusion in the forum.

Terms & Conditions