Karen Hokenson

Selfless love and dedication to her family, her work family, and friends. Karen died Tuesday afternoon on March 24, 2020 at her residence. Karen was born May 21, 1957 in Detroit, Michigan to Phillip and Wanda (Cartwright) Small. She had been a Kalamazoo area resident most of her life and was employed with Youth for Christ for over 20 years. Karen was also a member of Agape Christian Church. Karen truly lived a purposeful life, demonstrating eternal faith and trust in the Lord in everything she did. She was a mother figure to many, offering true, unconditional love to all who came into her life. She worked tirelessly to provide for her family, and support opportunities for all her children to pursue their passions. Karen left a legacy of hard work, perseverance, unconditional love, loyalty and forgiveness. She served and loved the Lord, and others without question. If any of us can serve and love like she did, we will have lived in a way that honors God and blesses others. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her son, Michael Hokenson on October 8, 2016. On April 21, 1979, she was united in marriage to Gregory M. Hokenson who survives. Also surviving, 3 children, Sarah (Eric) Therkildsen of Kalamazoo, Grace (Luke) Schneider of St. Paul, MN, and Jennifer (Matt) Henderson of Grand Rapids, MI; 7 grandchildren; a brother, Kenneth Small of Rochester Hills, MI; A sister, Christine (Todd) Hartman of Portage; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Private graveside service will be held in Genesee Prairie Cemetery. Regretfully, no open visitation can be held due to the current health crisis. When this passes, an open public gathering and celebration of her life will be held at Agape Christian Church. Please take this time to prepare thoughtful memories to share and honor this AMAZING LIFE SO WELL LIVED. Memorials may be directed to Kalamazoo YFC (Youth for Christ). Please visit Karen's personalized webpage for an online guestbook or to leave a condolence. Cards, etc. may be sent to 1713 Barney Rd Kalamazoo, MI 49004 Sarah Therkildsen. Arrangements were made by the Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 622 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. https://www.langelands.com