Arnold (Arnie) Albert Hokanson, age 66, passed away on Feb. 28, 2026, in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. Arnie was born on Jan. 12, 1960, in Frederic, Wisconsin, to Harold and Audrey (Wilson) Hokanson of Siren, Wisconsin.
Arnie had many interests, including country and rock music, reading, poetry, and art. Some of his favorite artists were Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Bob Dylan. He also loved to talk about politics and shared many stories about his life. When family came to visit, he had a good time reminiscing about growing up in Siren. He also loved to talk about his childhood and caring for many different types of animals and their antics. He enjoyed hearing about the accomplishments of his nieces and nephews and kept up with family through texting with his brothers and sister.
After leaving high school, Arnold enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served as a signalman on several aircraft carriers. Upon his discharge, he worked at many different jobs until he found the one he loved the most—driving over the road truck. After several years he was forced to take an early retirement due to health issues, but that did not stop him from telling us stories about his trucking life. He was a good storyteller very much like his father, who loved to tell his own trucking stories to the family. They were always interesting and, in most cases, had a humorous ending to them.
Arnie is survived by his longtime companion, Deb Strickland; his sister, Cynthia (Kenneth) Kubalek of Lake Ozark, Missouri; his brothers, Gary (Shelley) Hokanson of Gray, Georgia, and Craig (Paula) Hokanson of Cumberland, Wisconsin. Also missing him will be his six nieces and nephews, Matthew (Amber) Verdine, Kevin (Kelsey) Verdine, Michael Hokanson, Rachel Hokanson, Jesse (Rachel) Hokanson and Kallai Hokanson; as well as several great nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him very much. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Audrey Hokanson. The memories he will leave behind will always be cherished by those who knew and loved him.
Arrangements are being made with Kilcoyne Memorial Services in Rice Lake. At this time, no date for a memorial service has been set.
