John Elmer Hokanson

I just came across this obituary for Mr. Hokanson. The only fond memories I have of Junior High and High School was being in the band. I would occasionally babysit his girls. I'm so very sorry to hear of his passing. Belated love to his family.

We will remember John as a good neighbor and a good man who took his faith and his humanity seriously. He will be missed.

I met Mr. Hokanson at the start of the 1963 (Fall) school year. He was the new band director for the Flowing Wells HS/JHS Bands and I was a new 7th grade band student. We first met when I went to see him about getting a loaner trumpet. He told me he only had larger instruments and that he needed a tuba player. This didn´t sound good to me, but he convinced me to try it for four weeks and if I didn´t like it, I could change. So, after four weeks I reminded him about changing and he told me "No". He said I was doing well and I should stick with it a little longer. A little longer lasted six great years playing the tuba under his direction through high school and then four more years at the U of A.

During those years we were not only teacher and student, but he became like a second father to me. I spent many afternoons doing things he needed around the band room or for the band program and running errands. He also encouraged me to try-out for various honor bands and upon making them I got to experience instrumental music being played at much higher levels which was fantastic plus making new friends.

My gratitude to him continued after high school. For the following four years I went to Thursday night football field rehearsals to help out, announced the marching band football game programs, and chaperoned band trips.

My heart goes out to Melody, Celeste, and Lyric for the loss of their father. I was very saddened when I heard of his passing. He was truly a tremendous person who had a strong influence on my life for which I will always be grateful.

Rest in Peace Mr. Hokanson / Your student and friend, Sal Caccavale

Mr Hokanson wrote an amazing version of Burt Bacharach's "This Guy's In Love With You" which the marching band played...Miss you so....

George F Legate

Mr Hokanson prepared me for Mr Thomas B O'Kelley and the Winslow High School symphonic band. I can't tell you how much I miss and respect these two ultra talented teachers and their amazing rapport with--really--young children. They both gave me an appreciation and respect for such things as Shostakovich's 5th symphony and 5/4 time (Mission Impossible them). Love and respect ALWAYS. I haven't seen Mr Hokanson or Mr O'Kelley since the 60's but remember both of them like they were giving class this afternoon.

Peace!!

George F Legate

Dear Celeste, Melody, Lyric and family,
We were very sorry to hear of your dad´s death. Our sympathies and love,
Dan & Joanna Coogan

Sending condolences to the Hokanson family. Remembering an old friend,Melody. Sorry for your loss.

Mr. Hokanson aka "Mr. H" was a great mentor and like a father to me. He cultivated my love of music. I have many memories of tp'ing his house and he and Paula during and/or after the act, invite us in for cookies. I still remember when we were talking about college (I did receive a music scholarship from ASU) telliing me that I should go to NAU if I wanted my MRS degree:) He will be missed.

Loved having as my band teacher. He could come up with the fun configuration on the football field and he had a cool way for us to go around corners during the Rodeo parade

I enjoyed visiting with his quiet spirit.