The Montana State University-Northern Foundation is honored to recognize the extraordinary generosity and lasting legacy of Arnie and Joy Hokanson, whose lives were marked by a deep commitment to their community, the state of Montana, and the generations that will follow.
Arnie and Joy’s legacy of service and philanthropy began on the Hokanson Ranch, located south of Warrick in the beautiful Bear Paw Mountains. Arnold spent his entire life on the ranch, raising the Hereford cattle he so deeply loved. Together, Arnold and Joy made significant contributions to their local community and beyond. They were active members of the Montana Stockgrowers Association, the North Central Montana Stockgrowers, and contributed to many local initiatives. Arnold was also a founding member of the Montana Land and Mineral Owners Association and the Montana Country Poets and Pickers, where his passion for writing and storytelling came to life.
Arnie, a talented poet and published author of several books, shared his love for Montana and the rural experience through his writing. His work, both as a poet and a storyteller, captured the spirit of the land and its people, preserving a rich cultural history for future generations.
After retiring, Arnie and Joy moved north of Havre, where they continued to enjoy the outdoors and travel to picker and poet events that allowed them to connect with fellow artists and like-minded individuals.
In 2023, Arnie and Joy passed away, leaving behind not only a legacy of community engagement and artistic expression but also a substantial part of their estate to the MSU-Northern Foundation. Their decision to support the future of education, particularly in the fields of diesel mechanics and nursing, will have a profound impact on the lives of countless students. This generous gift to MSU-Northern will create opportunities for future generations to pursue careers that are vital to Montana’s economy and well-being.
On behalf of the MSU-Northern Foundation, the faculty, students, and staff, we express our deepest gratitude to the Hokanson family. Their selfless contribution will not only help shape the future of diesel mechanics and nursing programs but will also continue to honor their lifelong dedication to community, education, and the arts. Their legacy is a lasting gift that will serve as an inspiration for many years to come.