Joseph B. Stokes

Joseph B. Stokes

Joseph B. Stokes, 89, formerly of Hastings, MN, passed away peacefully  April  22, 2026, at Brookview Healthcare Center in Gaffney, SC, surrounded by love and lovingly cared for by his daughter. He will be missed more than words can say.

Joe was born in Geneva, IL, Oct. 15, 1936, to John and Lulu Stokes. He was also blessed with a half-sister, Helen Nelson. Joe attended Hixton High School and graduated before he became part of the U.S. Army Corps as a military transport operator and returned home with full honors. He later married Ione Hoagenson, the love of his life, and they shared 62 wonderful years of marriage together. They made their home in the Bloomington, MN area, where Joe worked at Hitchcock Industries as a band saw operator until his retirement. Along the way, they welcomed two daughters, Nancy and Janel, who were the center of their world.

After retiring, Joe and Ione moved to Hastings, MN. They gave back to their community by volunteering at retirement homes and taking residents on day trips. Joe also worked at a local cemetery, cutting grass and helping the groundskeeper. He found joy in staying busy and creative, spending time making windmills and wall art in many different shapes and designs. Later, they moved to South Carolina to be closer to Nancy and Peter, who helped care for them in their later years. 

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ione; his half-sister, Helen;  his daughter, Janel; brother-in-law Ray Becker; and sister-in-law Lois Becker.

Joe will be deeply missed by those who loved him most, including his daughter, Nancy (Peter Houston); sister-in-law Carol (Mark Stenulson); brother-in-law Lester (Devery Hoagenson); granddaughters Janna (Wimer Martinez) and Jolisa (Keil Nitz); as well as his many nieces and nephews and great-grandchildren.

The family will be having a small gathering to celebrate the life of Joseph B. Stokes.