Louise Hokanson

Louise Hokanson, the heart of the family, 99, of Fergus Falls, gained her angel wings on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Louise Elaine Hanson was born April 5, 1924 to Karl and Clara (Anderson) Hanson in Fergus Falls, MN. She grew up on the family farm with her seven siblings and attended country school in Buse Township. Louise always spoke of her early years with fond memories. Life in that day may not have been easy, the antics and shenanigans between her and her siblings helped them make the most of living through The Great Depression. Her favorite story to tell, was her attempt at smoking and in turn burnt down the family outhouse.

On October 30, 1949, Louise married Clifford Erickson and together they had two beautiful daughters, Pamela Rae and Patricia Kay. Louise and Clifford owned and operated the Eat-More Café in Fergus Falls and later sold the business. He passed away July 23, 1963.

Louise worked for many years at JCPenney where she was the friendly face everyone remembers. After numerous t-shirt purchases at JCPenney and attempts to ask Louise out on a date, Austin Hokanson finally got up the nerve. The two were married September 17, 1983 at Augustana Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls. They loved to travel and they were inseparable until his death on November 24, 2003.

She was a member of Augustana Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls, where she taught Sunday School. She was also a member of the "Golden Girls" and "McDonald's Breakfast Club".

Spending time with and spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was the highlight of her life. Louise also loved any time spent with her family and friends. Her home was a gathering place for many and she welcomed with open arms all who wanted to visit. She loved it when people stopped over, she always had coffee and baked goods for everyone. She also enjoyed baking, gardening, going for walks, sewing/quilting, and attending church.

Preceding her in death were her husbands, Clifford Erickson and Austin Hokanson; daughter, Pamela Carlson-Marstrand; parents, Karl and Clara Hanson; sister, Mae, and brothers, Vernon, Karl Jr., Reynold, Norman, Conrad, Harold, and Reynold (infant).

Louise is survived by her daughter, Patricia Wilkinson (John Gillund); grandchildren, Jennifer (Roger) French, Rebecca (Jay) Montgomery, Sara (Kyle) Eide, and Matthew Wilkinson; great-grandchildren, Emily (Dustin) Tilseth, Sara, Andrew, Austin, Sam, Rae, Evan, and John; great-great-grandchildren, Stella and Violet, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A special thank you to Louise's team of caregivers from Knute Nelson Hospice.

Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m., Monday March 4, 2024 at Augustana Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls with visitation one hour prior to the service.

Clergy: Reverend Amy Kelly

Burial: Knollwood Memorial Gardens, Fergus Falls, MN

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com