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Earl Hokens Obituary

Hokens, Earl E.

Earl E. Hokens, Jr., 79, of Beverly passed away January 27, 2024. Earl was the first born of the late Earl and Agnes Johnson Hokens. Raised in Roseland, he was a Fenger High grad and attended the University of Illinois at Navy Pier where he met his wife of 59 years, Jeanne, nee Koval. He was the proud father of Erica Hokens (Marc Corson) and Earl III (wife, Qi) and the loving Grampa and Yeye of Inga and Ivan Hokens and Christian and Anne Gulzinski. Dear brother-in-law of Louise Grzybowski (the late Dr. John). Fond uncle of six nieces and nephews.

Constantly curious and creative, Earl was an artist, illustrator, photographer, luthier, craftsman, a Mr. Fix-It and former owner of Eason Mfg. in Griffith IN. He loved hard rock, a cold Pepsi, collecting antiques and artwork. He was deeply devoted to his friends and cousins.

Earl was preceded by his younger brother, Edward.

The family sends their immense gratitude to the LVAD Team at Christ Hospital for keeping Earl ticking for 8 special years. Earl's positivity and good humor made running on batteries seem like a normal thing! If you wish, contributions to the American Heart Assn. appreciated.

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Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Feb. 4, 2024.

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5 Entries

Ivy

December 4, 2024

miss you grandpa

The Tucker Family

July 22, 2024

Jeanne, Erica, and Earl-

We are truly saddened to discover this news. For nearly fifty years or more, my family has been priveleged to have the blessing of your neighborly love, friendship, and support. For our whole lives, you have been at every turn in the road in support of our family, and we are honored. Earl was a Consummate Artist who inspired me and our whole family, to embrace and incorporate the artist's touch in everything we do. To all the Hokens family, we know that those who are not among us are congregated in a far better place and watching over you all.

The Tuckers

Bill Mills

February 10, 2024

It saddens me to read this obituary. You and I were always good friends in high school and then in this later life as we had opportunity to come together once again. I valued our times together and hold your friendship and especially your great smile and humor in high regards and admiration. May you rest in peace my dear friend.

Tom Dart

February 5, 2024

Earl or Mr Hokens, as i knew him was the kindest,most thoughtful neighbor a person could ask for.He always engaged me and my siblings with kindness and seriousness that most adults would rarely do. His smile was perpetual. More importantly the assistance and kindness he showed my mom over the decades was amazing. He added so much joy to my growing up across the alley. I will never forget him and my heartfelt condolences to his family. Tom Dart

Craig Arthur / Lynn Skinner

February 1, 2024

__________Earl, my oldest cousin from the Johnson side...Earl was a super nice man. He never said a bad word about anything..always a smile and a hello. Someone to look up to & I did just that. He and my older sister (Corrine) were major buddies. Earl was the 1st of the Johnson's to attend College. This became my focus. If he could do it, so could I. Bus Mgt Degree in 75..__ASU Nothing but fond memories of Earl....I remember his hard work for his family during the Christmas Tree flocking business days..He and my brother were enlisted to make tree stands at the shop. (the Hole).1960's____For that month they ( Earl Sr. and Uncle Charlie) made tremendous money...I was young - so I just played in the 15 ft.pile of Christmas trees and ran around the warehouse. Jean, your husband will be greatly missed...Lynn and my sympathy for your loss..................
Craig Arthur and Lynn Skinner

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