Marlene Mae Hockinson

Marlene Mae Hockinson (‘Marti’), a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, went to be with her soulmate on August 23, 2023, at the age of 87. She reunited with Bob, her ‘babe,’ just two days after their 69th wedding anniversary.

Marlene was born on July 28, 1936, in Charles City, Iowa, the daughter of Clayton and Amelia Miller. She attended school in Charles City, Iowa, where she met her high school sweetheart, Robert Hockinson. Marlene was hesitant to fall for the rebellious young man, but he was persistent, and she ultimately could not resist. A few months after graduation, in 1954, Robert and Marlene eloped in Manly, Iowa. Shortly after they married, Bob enlisted in the Air Force. While she initially aspired to be an airline stewardess, Marlene and Bob made the decision that she would be a dedicated military wife and follow her husband to various bases and states, where they would grow a family.

Once settled in Minnesota, she entered the workforce where she spent much of her career working at Medtronic.  She was recognized for many accomplishments over the years which she was very proud of. Marlene and Bob also dabbled in their own business ventures. Once retired, she dedicated her time to working and volunteering at the library in Mora, Minnesota. Mora was a special place to Marlene and Bob as they enjoyed retired life at their cabin (“The Hock’s Nest”).

Marlene was strongly devoted to her family and deeply valued individual relationships. She cherished the time she was able to spend with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who she affectionately bestowed and referred to by their own unique nicknames. Much of her time was spent finding the perfect greeting card for celebrations big and small. Words of endearment were extremely important to her. Marlene was known for writing down and collecting inspirational quotes and messages. She inspired many with her ability to give support, show affection, and be a listening ear, while also making a point to recognize multiple sides of a situation. One of her greatest contributions was the time she made available to care for and support others. Her presence was calm, steady, welcoming, and inclusive.

Outside of family, what Marlene enjoyed most in life included reading books, playing marbles and cards, collecting, driving anywhere to watch her grandchildren’s activities, keeping up with current events, attending stage performances, and going to the movies. She had a strong desire to continuously learn and evolve with the times (e.g., iPad games until 86). She was faithful, resilient, an advocate, and open to change. She would be the first to stand up for equality and inclusiveness. Very seldom were her feathers ruffled, but when they were, it was typically due to losing a marble game or unfair treatment of others (which would result in the occasional ‘F’ bomb or dice being fake thrown).

The last several years of Marlene’s life were spent moving between Minnesota and Florida. She wanted to be with family that resided in both states and spent her most recent years in Minnesota since that is where many of her great-grandchildren live. She wanted to be surrounded by joy, happiness, love, and the laughter of children. Her fight against Parkinson’s, Dementia, and Alzheimer’s was challenging and required courage and dedication.

Marlene is survived by her brother, Bill (Audrey) of North Ft. Myers, FL; four children, son, Randy (Lisa) Hockinson of Zumbrota, MN; daughter, Deb (Mike) Allen of Ramsey, MN; son, Rick (Laurie) Hockinson of Cape Coral, FL; daughter, Darcie Hockinson of St. Charles, MN; ten grandchildren (spouses); fifteen great-grandchildren; and the extended Hockinson and Miller families.

She was greeted in Heaven by her husband, Bob; parents, Clayton and Amelia Miller; brother, Wayne (Juanita) Miller; sister, Patsy (Myron) Wulff; two nieces and a nephew; parents-in-law; and siblings-in-law.

A ‘PARTY FOR MARTI’ (Celebration of Life) will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 30 at The Covered Bridge Pavilion in Zumbrota, MN. All are welcome, but we request you bring your game face as we will play cards, marbles, and other games, since this is what Marti wanted.

Per Marlene’s request, in lieu of flowers the family will be donating gifts to help support her great-grandson’s ongoing therapies and medical needs as they relate to his life with Down Syndrome (donations can be sent to The Hockinson Family). To hear more about his story: https://www.facebook.com/groups/780024585748600/