Hilding Hokanson

Hilding Leonard Hokanson was born on August 8, 1925, in Pelican Rapids, to Olaf and Caroline (Olson) Hakenson. Because his dad died when he was only two years old, he was raised by his Uncle Otto. He grew up in Pelican Rapids and graduated from High School in 1943. Hilding served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 – 1946. He then attended the University of Minnesota from 1946 – 1950 and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in soils. Hilding was united in marriage to Elsie Osman on February 3, 1951. The couple made their home and raised their family in Marshall. Hilding worked as a Soil Scientist for the Soil Conservation Service until his retirement in 1986. He enjoyed many sports including bowling and golfing. He also enjoyed spending time at Camden State Park. Hilding was talented with carpentry work and built some of his own furniture, a patio and garage. He enjoyed exercising, especially at the Wellness Center in Marshall. After a brief stay at Luther Haven Home in Montevideo, Hilding died at the Montevideo Hospital on Thursday, December 01, 2011. He is survived by his wife Elsie, children Martha (and Roger) Molde of Montevideo, John Hokanson of Maple Grove, daughter-in-law Debbie Hokanson of Cottonwood, grandchildren Stacey Rudin, David Hokanson, Laura Molde, Joanna Hokanson, Marie Molde, John Daniel Hokanson and Kristine Molde, three great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Joel Hilding, siblings Donald, Harlan, Harry, Linda, Mable, Albin, Walter and Duane.