John S. Hokanson

Age 86 of St. Paul Passed away September 2, 2010. Survived by his wife of 63 years, Mabel; children Roger (Karen), Kirk (Margaret), grandchildren, Spencer, Brianna, and Heda and his committed feline companion Patches. Preceded in death by parents Harriet Preston and Clarence Hokanson and cousin Lois Selin. Born in Orange, New Jersey May 28, 1924. After graduating from high school he served in WWII in the 8th Armored Division of the US Army from 1943-1946. He married Mabel Roberts August 30, 1947. He attended Carlton College in North-field, MN graduating in 1948 with a BS in mathematics and went on to complete his master's degree in mathematics at the University of Michigan in 1949. He taught mathematics in Ohio and Wisconsin before securing a quality control management position with Oscar Meyers. He and Mabel moved to Minnesota with their two children when he became an actuary for Blue Cross Blue Shield from where he retired in 1981. His years of retirement were spent with Mabel traveling the world and spending time at 22 Elderhostels. He loved a good party and was always ready to join friends and family for a good cocktail and bite to eat at one of his many favorite downtown restaurants. In his later years he would usually prefer dessert first. John will be interred at Sunset Chapel of Peace in NE Minneapolis. A dedication to his life will be celebrated TODAY, Saturday, September 4, at 3:00 PM at Episcopal Homes, Cornelia House Coventry Chapel, 1840 University Ave. W, St. Paul. Memorials preferred to St. Paul's Episcopal Church on the Hill, Animal Humane Society, and Aliveness Project. Washburn-McReavy Hillside Chapel (612) 781-1999