Marilyn Florence Laude Hawkinson passed away on December 21, 2016, in Apache Junction, Arizona. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. A woman of strong faith, the relationship she built with God was devout and powerful. Marilyn always led by example. Her kind, generous, welcoming spirit, perseverance, and legacy of love will never be forgotten.
Marilyn was born in Helma, Minnesota. A beautiful, bright, and inquisitive child, she graduated at the top of her high school class. She loved to read and learn, and continued her education at Kresson Business College, Grand Forks, ND. After her 5 children graduated from high school, Marilyn continued her quest for knowledge and attended North Dakota State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology.
Marilyn married Donald Hawkinson, from Inkster, North Dakota, in 1955. They moved to Fargo, North Dakota where she worked as a legal secretary. Marilyn and Donald were active members of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, serving on several committees. They were sports enthusiasts who supported hockey, football and all the sporting activities played by their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. One of the highlights for Marilyn and Donald was traveling in their RV to visit family and friends.
Known for her ease in frequent conversations, even with total strangers, some may be surprised to learn that she spent her childhood caring for her family and working the family farm. Yet even as a child she possessed a contagious smile and an entertaining sense of humor. Throughout her life she maintained a sweet and simple demeanor that won the trust and hearts of many, who even now are being changed by her constant nurturing love and faith. Marilyn’s signature gift of joy was shown through her constant smiling, laughter, and joking around and will never be forgotten.
She loved dancing, holiday decorating, entertaining, and cooking. The delicious meals she prepared were well known to all her family and friends. Everyone wanted to come to “Marilyn’s house” for her hospitality. Throughout her accomplished life, the greatest joy of all was spending time with her family. Marilyn cherished celebrating all holidays, especially Christmas with her husband, daughters, sons, son-in-laws, daughter-in-laws, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, extended family and friends at her home.
She was preceded in death by her son, David Hawkinson; grandson, Andrew Hawkinson; parents, Lawrence and Florence Laude; sister, Lorna Sherman and brother, Lawrence (Bud) Laude. Marilyn is survived by her devoted and loving husband, Donald Hawkinson, Gold Canyon, Arizona; daughters Becky Smith (Bruce) Scottsdale, Arizona, Cheryl Keck (Richard), Columbus, Ohio, Lori Kleinjan (Anthony) Memphis, Tennessee and her son, Donald Hawkinson (Dawn) Fargo, North Dakota; daughter-in-law, Amy Miller Hawkinson, Fargo, North Dakota; 27 beloved grandchildren; 21 adored great grandchildren and brothers, Eldon Laude, Kindred, North Dakota; David Laude, West Fargo, North Dakota; James Laude, Shelby, North Carolina; John Laude, New Mexico; brother-in-law Vince Sherman. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support. A very special acknowledgement to the staff of Apache Junction Health Center and Hospice of the Valley. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hospice of the Valley, in memory of Marilyn Hawkinson.
I was shocked and saddened to see the passing of Marilyn. Although we hadn’t been in contact for many years, memories of working at the Lanier Law Firm with her and Legal Secretaries so many years ago. My deepest sympathies to the family.