Stephanie (Moe) Hokanson

Stephanie Hokanson Beloved Sister, Teacher, and Friend

Stephanie Hokanson, age 79, of Sioux City, Iowa, passed away peacefully with her beloved nephew, Adam, by her side, of a sudden stroke on June 30, 2025, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. A service celebrating Steph’s life will be held on July 22 at 11 a.m. at Wesley Global Methodist Church, Sioux City. Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. at the church prior to the service. For those who wish to honor Steph’s memory, donations may be made to Hospice of Siouxland, Wesley United Methodist Church, or the Soup Kitchen. Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel has assisted the family with arrangements.

Born in Sioux City, Steph entered the world as part of a “matched set” alongside her identical twin sister Barb—a bond she often described as both joyful and sacred. The two were so alike in voice and manner that even husbands, friends, and former students struggled to tell them apart.

Steph was a proud graduate of Central High School, where she was an active member of the drill team and student council. She earned her degree in Elementary Education from Morningside College, with minors in psychology and French. Her teaching career began at Webster School and spanned decades, with many cherished years at Lincoln and Clark Elementary. Known for her creativity, compassion, and quick wit, Steph often said she played the role of teacher, nurse, counselor, artist, and comedian all in one day—and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

A lifelong advocate for public education, Steph served as President and Primary Director for the Sioux City Education Association and in numerous other leadership roles. Her generous heart also led her to volunteer with St. Luke’s Auxiliary, the Soup Kitchen, Castle on the Hill Association, and her beloved church, where she served on the Administrative Board.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Stan Hokanson, whom she often referred to as the love of her life and soul mate.

Steph is survived by her twin sister and best friend, Barb Culley, and brother-in-law Linn Culley; her beloved nephews and their families—Christopher and Joni Culley (Emerson, Olivia, and Katie Jane), and Adam and Emily Culley (Avery and Ashlyn); and her stepchildren and their families—Kym and John Allen (Hailee Franck, Dalton and Emily Franck, and great-granddaughter Alice), and Ryan and Shari Hokanson (Owen and Abigail). She was also dearly loved by the extended families of Darwin and Norma Brink, as well as Carol and Cecil Lang, including many nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends.

Steph’s legacy of love, laughter, and learning lives on in the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.