Kathryn S. Stoakes

KATHRYN S. STOAKES was born on April 2, 1921 to William and Malinda (Bierkamp) Rathjen in Luverne, Minnesota, where she was raised and received her education. She was baptized and later confirmed at the First Presbyterian Church in Luverne. On April 13, 1941, Kathryn was united in marriage to Darrell J. Stoakes. Following their marriage the couple lived on the Stoakes family farm just west of Hardwick, Minnesota. Darrell preceded Kathryn in death in 1947. Kathryn then moved to Luverne and was employed at the Luverne Creamery and A.R. Wood Manufacturing. In 1959, she moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where she worked as an apartment manager until her retirement in 1986. She then returned to Luverne and enjoyed her retirement traveling around the United States with the Prime Timers. She also remained busy as she joined the Pink Ladies, R.S.V.P., and sewed at the Minnesota Veterans Home and Luverne Hospital. Kathryn moved to the Poplar Creek assisted living facility in September 2007. In September 2009 she became a resident at the Parkview Manor in Ellsworth, Minnesota, where on Monday, August 29, 2011 Kathryn passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 90 years, four months, and 27 days.

Kathryn enjoyed watching football, baseball and golf on television. Her love was baking and sharing her sweets with her friends. She also enjoyed her hobby of hardanger and playing pinochle.

Kathryn is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Sandra Hohn of Luverne. She was preceded in death by her husband, Darrell; parents, William and Malinda; two sisters, Lucille “Tillie” Jarchow and Helen Steinfeldt; and a brother, Kenneth Rathjen.

A private family graveside service will be held at Maplewood Cemetery in Luverne.