Obituary for Arlene Anna Hakanson

Arlene Anna Hakanson, 89, passed away peacefully at home on December 14^th, 2022. She is preceded in death by her mother Hazel, father Arthur, husband Kenneth, and son Michael. She is survived by daughters, Deborah (Steve) Crone, Jeanne (Dave) Larsen, and Wendy Hakanson; eight grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, sister Genevieve Ness, brothers-in-law Larry Dahlberg, Gene Hakanson, Jimmy (Kathy) Hakanson, sister-in-law Jean Hakanson, many nieces and nephews, and special caregiver Jessica.

Arlene was born and raised in Fridley, MN. She attended Columbia Heights High School and was voted Homecoming Queen in 1950. She married Kenneth Hakanson in 1951 and became an enthusiastic Army wife. They lived in California, Austria, Maryland, North Carolina, Germany, Virginia, and Panama before coming home to Minnesota permanently in 1970.

Arlene was a loving daughter, wife, mother, sister, and grandmother. She was social, sweet, funny, generous, and energetic. She worked in various secretarial roles throughout her career and was known for her fast and accurate typing. She grew to love sewing while in Germany, making clothing for her daughters, grandchildren, and herself over the years. She enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren by making their favorite meals and treats and giving thoughtful gifts. She loved her dogs and cats dearly, making sure they were fed better than most humans! She was a HUGE Vikings fan. She dressed in purple and gold from head-to-toe on game days and was eager to talk about her team with any sports fan nearby.

A service is planned for Friday, December 23^rd at St. Gerard’s Catholic Church in Brooklyn Park. Visitation from 10am-11am. Mass of Christian Burial at 11am with a luncheon to follow. Everyone is welcome to wear one or both of her favorite things: purple and sparkles!