Curt Hokanson

Curt Hokanson, a deeply beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and educator, reached his final travel destination and was called home to Heaven on February 12, 2024, surrounded by his family, along with the sudden appearance of a rare red cardinal outside his window in Shakopee, Minnesota.

Born on December 19, 1941, in Slayton, Minnesota, to Harry and Pearl Hokanson, Curt spent his early years on farms near Avoka, Tracy, and Slayton. His educational journey began in Tracy and then at a country school taught by his mother.

After graduation from Slayton High School in 1959, he went on to pursue higher education at Augustana College and Mankato State University. The early days of his career were spent inspiring students (K-12) in library science and business classes, as well as directing school and community plays in Jasper, MN from 1963 to 1989. Children especially enjoyed the funny voices he used when storytelling and reading books. During his military service between 1967 and 1969, he served and worked evenings at Central Texas Junior College, helping service members attain higher education. In 1989, Curt continued his teaching career in Redwood Falls, until his retirement in 2005. He also served as a part-time reference librarian at Southwest State University from 1999 to 2009.

Upon retiring, Curt and his wife of 53 years, Ilene, moved to Shakopee, MN, where he embraced a life filled with travel and precious moments spent with his children and grandchildren. His legacy lives on through his three children: Steve (Tonsha) Hokanson, Karen (Kristopher) Bedi, and Mark (Marie Zellman) Hokanson, and his seven cherished grandchildren: Kayla, Cortney, AJ, Hannah, Ezrie, Tatiana, and Ryan. He is survived by his sister, Marilyn (Leon) Mortland.

To say Curt was a loving and compassionate man would be an understatement. He had a steadfast moral compass, unwavering integrity, and deep-rooted humility. He loved to spread joy through his God-given talents. Curt will be endearingly revered for his love of planting a multitude of flowers in his innumerable flower pots and his profound passion in decorating for Christmas.

Curt will be laid to rest at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, honoring his dedication to service. A Celebration of Life memorial will be held on Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 11:00AM at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, West Campus, 7150 Rolling Acres Road, Victoria, MN. A reception will be held from 10-11 AM, and lunch will follow the service. His memory will forever be cherished by those whose lives he touched with his warmth, humor, passion for helping others, and serving the Lord.

Arrangements with McNearney-Schmidt Funeral and Cremation, Shakopee, 952-445-2755. Condolences may be shared at www.mcnearneyfuneralhome.com