Alan Robert Hokanson

Alan Robert Hokanson, 79, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on May 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and proud Marine.   Alan lived a life marked by service, integrity, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Born on September 22, 1945, in Carroll, Iowa, Alan grew up with a strong sense of responsibility and a desire to serve. After graduating from East High School, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1964. Stationed at Camp Pendleton and deployed to Vietnam for thirteen months, Alan rose to the rank of Sergeant E-5. His distinguished service earned him numerous commendations including the Vietnam Medal, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Award, and Meritorious Mast. During his tour in Vietnam, Alan was exposed to Agent Orange-an exposure that would ultimately contribute to his passing decades later.

Upon returning home from war in 1968, Alan married the love of his life Goldie M Smith, July 19, 1968 at the Lutheran church.  Alan began a long and respected career with the Iowa State Patrol. For 34 years he served as the Patrol Garage Supervisor, earning accolades for his work and participating in numerous training seminars. Known for his reliability and mechanical expertise, he was a cornerstone of the department's operations.

Even in retirement, Alan's drive never waned. He spent ten years working security at Merle Hay Mall-a role he truly enjoyed-before taking on seasonal work maintaining at a mobile home park. Always one to stay active and lend a hand where needed, Alan believed in keeping busy and being useful.

Alan's life was deeply rooted in faith and family. He attended Open Bible Church and Light House Church alongside his beloved wife of 57 years, Goldie M. Hokanson. When asked if he knew Jesus, Alan once replied with a smile, "Of course I do-I live with Gold." Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and mutual devotion. Together they built a home filled with warmth and laughter for over five decades.

Alan is survived by his wife Goldie; daughter Renay A. Arduser and her husband Ken Arduser; son-in-law Charles Streeter and his wife Diane Streeter; grandchildren Sean Alan Streeter (wife Jessica Streeter), Mackenzie R. Arduser (children Arela Arduser), Joey Streeter, and Selena Nichols (husband Anthony Nichols); great-grandchildren Cora Streeter and Nova Streeter; brother Dan Hokanson (wife Dorothy Hokanson); as well as a host of extended family members and dear friends who cherished him.

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Alvina Hokanson; sister Sandra Flisher; and nephew Terry Hokanson.

Alan had many passions that brought him joy throughout his life. He loved old cars and often reminisced about his drag racing days. He earned his pilot license and found great happiness flying with family members-especially with his grandson Sean as co-pilot. Alan would even remove Sean's car seat from the car just to install it in the plane so they could fly together.

A skilled mechanic at heart, Alan enjoyed working on any with a engine and fixing anything that needed repair. He also loved fishing at his daughter's house-always hoping to catch the big catfish-and spending time outdoors. His German Shepherds, Kizer and Timber, held a special place in his heart.

Above all else, Alan's greatest love was his family-his "tribe," as he fondly called them. Whether checking in daily with Goldie about their daughter or calling the kids just to see how they were doing, Alan made sure everyone knew they were loved. His home was always open for visits from children and grandchildren alike-offering advice or simply spending time together.

Alan lived a life of honor and integrity. He prepared not only for himself but for those he loved most-ensuring that when the time came for him to go home to heaven, his family would be okay. His presence was steadfast; he was always just a phone call away.

Alan leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through the lives of those who knew him best. His strength of character, deep faith, and unwavering devotion to family will be remembered always.

May his memory bring comfort to all who had the privilege of knowing him. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 14, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 02:00 PM at Streeters Home: 16565 118th Ave . One of Alans favorite places to be.  Military service will start at 10:30am. Service at all 11am followed by lunch.  Visiting with the family.