Dolores Hakenson

Dolores Hakenson was born on June 1, 1926 in Alexandria, MN the daughter of Francis and Frankie (Nelson) Soderholm. After graduating from Alexandria High School Dolores attended St. Cloud State receiving a B.S. degree in elementary education. She taught one year in Wheaton and then moved to Norcross at which time she married Cheslie Hakenson on June 18, 1948. In Norcross, Dolores taught school and piano. She was also a Girl Scout Leader and belonged to the American Legion Auxiliary. After Norcross they moved back to the Alexandria area where Dolores continued teaching. Dedicated and committed to children, Dolores taught a total of 43 years in different schools including Nelson, Garfield, Washington, and of course, she taught Sunday school. Always thinking of others Dolores crocheted herself into our hearts. Her ability to create patterns and transform yarn into table cloths, blankets, hats, doilies, dishcloths, afghans, and even plastic bag purses amazed us all. Donating her time and crafts to the auctions at church and senior center thrilled her heart. Blessing others came naturally to Dolores. She sent money to a Philippine girl named Rowena Tita, this paid her schooling, elementary through college. She volunteered at the Senior Center, Knute Nelson, and even received a certificate for volunteering over 2000 hours at Bethany Home. After retiring, Dolores enjoyed traveling. She visited Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, and many European countries. Dolores June Hakenson died on Sunday, February 8, 2009 at her home in Alexandria at the age of 82 years. She is survived by two brothers Donald Soderholm of Alexandria and Dwayne Soderholm of Alexandria; nieces and nephews Scott and Kate Soderholm of Alexandria; Susan and Ken Persons of Cambridge, MN; Kathy and Jay Morrell of Monticello, MN; Leone and Mike Howe of Glenwood, MN; Joan and Bill Osterberg of Chaska, MN; Kraig and Dawne Soderholm of CA; Linda Soderholm of CA; Shelly Soderholm of CA; Keith Larson of Prior Lake, MN; 13 great nieces and nephews; and 14 great great nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband Cheslie Hakenson; siblings Kenneth Soderholm and Darleen Larson; and great nephew Judd Osterberg. A funeral service was held on Thursday, February 12, 2009 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Alexandria with the Reverend Dale Olson officiating. Interment was in the Evergreen Cemetery. Casket Bearers were Scott Soderholm, Andrew Soderholm, Kraig Soderholm, Jay Morrell, Earl Olson, and Ken Persons. Becky Worley played the organ and Barbara DeGrote Sorenson was the soloist. Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home of Alexandria