John Hokanson Obituary

John Henry Hokanson, Jr. Apr. 29, 1963 - Sept. 23, 2012 Resident of Walnut Creek John passed away unexpectedly but peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, September 23rd. Friends and acquaintances all agree that he was one of the most loyal, honest and sincere people they encountered. "Even with all his pain, it was always about someone else for John." He spent his last few hours watching the Giants clinch the National League West division title. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Karen; loving children Jack and Catherine. Parents Cap and Ann Hokanson; sister Jennifer and fianc‚ Mark; nephews Nick and Logan; extended family and many, many friends that loved him and his faithful canine companion Ranger. John passionately loved his family. In his healthier days he enjoyed volunteering at school and community events. He helped coach Jack's baseball teams. He was a lifelong fan of the Niners and the Giants. John will be greatly missed by his family and scores of lives that he touched. We take comfort in the knowledge that he knew Jesus Christ as his Lord and savior and saw the miracle of Christ's love in the community that loved and supported him and his family. We will see you again in heaven Hoke. In lieu of flowers please send donations in John's memory to Tony LaRussa's Animal Rescue Foundation. 2890 Mitchell Dr., Walnut Creek, CA 94598.

Published by Contra Costa Times on Sep. 26, 2012.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for John Hokanson

Not sure what to say?





Just learned of John's passing. We became good friends while we worked together at the Corte Madera inn almost 30 years ago. There were a group of us who became very close and we had many good times together. Know he will be missed by everyone who knew him. John was one of the nicest people in this entire world. I was sorry we lost contact after I moved to Southern California. You and your family will be in my prayers as you get through this difficult time.

Fondly,
Marianne Lynch Fraher

Marianne Lynch Fraher

October 28, 2012

Dear Karen and kids, we were heartbroken to hear the sad news. We will always remember John's great smile, positive attitude, and sense of humor. May God bring you peace during these sad days. With love, the Bryant Family.

October 8, 2012

I met sweet natured John when he and Mary played as toddlers while their big sisters were busy in their Play Group. They started kindergarten together and will always be one of our special Homestead School family.
Letty Erringer and family
Our blessings to his family

September 30, 2012

In my mind, John is a bright eyed, eager,ebullient nine year old, attending Homestead School in Mill Valley with our son Carter. Then, to our pleasure, his parents brought him and Jenny to live on our road above Muir Woods. There he goes....riding his bike! Mrs. Collins

Patricia Collins

September 30, 2012

Dear Karen, Jack, Catherine & Family,

We are heartbroken over John. May God's love shine down on you, sustain you, comfort you & protect you. John is your angel in heaven, always with you & guiding you.

"Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints of snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awake in the morning's hush
I am the soft uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft star that shines at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry. I am not there. I did not die."

Our heartfelt thoughts & prayers are with you,
The Derderian Family

September 28, 2012

I loved the way he adored the three of you. His smile was so contagious. I remember when we brought Jack home from Muir Woods last summer, he had so many stories of growing up in that area...he just lit up while he shared childhood memories with me. He was full of joy.

The Paden Family

September 27, 2012

So sorry to hear of John's passing - I remember your family with fondness & love. Take care

Verna Puline

September 27, 2012

I'll remember John as a funny and caring dog-lover. I send my deep condolences to his family.

Susan

September 27, 2012

A friend is an angel that carries us through the toughest of times, and the happiest too.

A friend is an angel that watches over us, and lends support when times get tough.

A friend is an angel with a great big heart, who loves and cares for us the way that we are.

My childhood friend Johnny is gone, all our lives are that much better to have known him even if for just a moment.

As much as you were needed and loved, God needed you more.

Good Bye my old friend, you will always remain in my heart and my memories
Margaret Raskowksy

Margaret Raskowsky

September 27, 2012

Cappie, Annie and Family,
Words are hard at this time, but my thoughts are with you. I recall John as a friend to our John when in High School. Condolences, hugs and love, Lois

Lois

September 27, 2012

Dear Karen, Jack, and Catherine,
We will be keeping you in our thoughts and prayers as you move through this time. You are all a special blessing to our community. John will be missed by so many. He will always be a part of you.

Love, The Reutter Family

September 26, 2012

Karen, Jack and Catherine, I will always remember his ability to make me laugh in my worst of moments and hardest days. He shared many stories of wonderful and happy times with you all and I was truly blessed that he was my friend.

Kris Trovato-Hughes

September 26, 2012

Praying for God's perfect peace. Loved reading your sweet words honoring John. You are all in my prayers.

Cindy hildebrand

September 26, 2012

John's photo is so perfect. I will remember him just like this. The Forhan family sends you their love.

September 26, 2012

We will miss you, may your big heart rest peacefully. God bless, the Littles

Renee Littlr

September 26, 2012

Dear Karen, Jack and Catherine,

I know this is such a sad, difficult time for all of you. Cherish the wonderful memories of a great husband and father who truly loved all of you. We will always remember his big smile, cheery words and twinkle in his eyes. He was such a good man.

Love,

The VanBrocklins (Henry, Linda, Eric & Seth)

Linda & Henry VanBrocklin

September 26, 2012

Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results

Make a Donation
in John Hokanson's name

Memorial Events
for John Hokanson

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support John's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor John Hokanson's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more