Gary Wayne Hokanson, of Martinsville, Va., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. He was born in Vermontville, Mich. to Hale D. Hokanson and Arline Howe Hokanson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Lyle Hokanson.
Gary is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Patricia Lawson Hokanson; his daughters, Joanna Smith and Kristen Westover (Mark); his grandchildren, Allison Smith and Andrew Smith (Kaci); step-granddaughter, Baylee Collett (Michael), step-great-grandchildren, Payton, Payslee, Parker and Praiselynn; the mother of his two daughters, Judy Waterman; his sisters, Paula Cole (Gerald) and Loa Kinyon (Ben); and his sister-in-law, Mary Hokanson.
Born with an artistic gift, Gary grew up in a loving family of artists and craftspeople and knew from a young age that he wanted to draw furniture for a living. He proudly served in the United States Army National Guard from 1960 to 1963 and in the Army Reserves until his honorable discharge in 1968. Gary attended the Kendall School of Design in Grand Rapids, Mi. He began his designing career at Selig Manufacturing and went on to work for American of Martinsville, Lane Furniture, and Stanley, eventually freelancing to close out his career. Gary was a talented artist who was passionate about designing award winning furniture for over 50 years. He remains a respected figure in the furniture design community, known for his innovative contributions and commitment to excellence.
Gary loved and was loved by his family and friends. He was known for his humor and caring and supportive nature. He filled any room with his extroverted and social personality, always bringing a sense of humor. He was a loving and supportive husband, father and grandfather and will be dearly missed.
A private burial will take place at Roselawn Burial Park. A memorial service will be held at 2:30 pm on Monday, May 27, 2024, at Victory Chapel at Kings Grant.
Memorials may be made to the Kendall School of Art and Design of Ferris State University General Scholarship Endowment. https://kcad.ferris.edu/admissions/funding-your-education/scholarships/kcad-scholarship-endowment.html.
McKee-Stone Funeral Home in Martinsville, VA, is serving the family. To express condolences online, please visit [www.collinsmckeestonemartinsville.com](http://www.collinsmckeestonemartinsville.com.
