Geraldine I. Haukos

Obituary

Geraldine Idella (Bordson) Haukos was born on June 15, 1929, in Madison, Minnesota, to Henry and Bertha (Flaaen) Bordson. Geraldine was baptized on July 14, 1929, by Rev. Carlson, and confirmed on May 9, 1943, by Rev. Simonson at Hegre Lutheran Church near Madison. Geraldine’s memory verse was Psalm 16:11, “In thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures forevermore.” Geraldine graduated from Madison High School in May 1947 and went on to attend the Madison Teacher’s Training Department. She completed her certification and taught elementary school in Minnesota, proudly serving District 48 from 1949 to 1951.

On March 10, 1951, Geraldine married Willard Haukos at Hegre Lutheran Church with Rev. Rossing officiating. Despite a record-breaking snowstorm that month, their marriage was a celebration of enduring love and partnership. The couple first lived on Willard’s family farm and later moved to Glencoe in 1955, where Willard became a farm implement dealer.

Geraldine devoted herself to raising her family and took great pride in lovingly cooking and baking for them. Family and friends always looked forward to her homemade specialties—pickles, scalloped potatoes, Norwegian Kringlas, apple pies, Special K bars, and an array of cookies, especially her beloved oatmeal date cookies. She cherished hosting holiday and birthday gatherings, filling her home with joy, warmth, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals. In addition to her role in the home, Geraldine also served as the bookkeeper for Glen Knoll Properties, a business she managed alongside her husband.

She and Willard raised three children: Jan, Dawn, and Kim. They enjoyed supporting their children through every school concert, game, and milestone.

In their 50s, Geraldine and Willard learned to ski and later taught their grandchildren, creating cherished memories on the slopes. They shared a passion for dancing, playing cards, and exploring the world together, traveling to countries such as Norway, Israel, Austria, China, and many others. One of the most meaningful moments was taking communion in the Garden of Gethsemane in Israel.

A woman of deep faith, Geraldine was a Charter Member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Glencoe, where she was active in the Ladies’ Guild, Altar Guild, Greeters ministry, and served as a Sunday School teacher for several years.

She and Willard shared 58 beautiful years of marriage before his passing on April 30, 2009, at the age of 86.

Geraldine is survived by her children: Jan (Gretchen) Haukos, Dawn (Wayne) Huepenbecker, and Kim (Carol) Haukos; grandchildren: Jerad (Valerie) Huepenbecker, Joslin (Jason) Thiemann, Jalissa (Chad) Kruckman, Dain (Brook) Haukos, Hali (Bobby) Maslowski, and Tate (Taylor) Gorter; and great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Bob Wolford.

Geraldine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Willard; her parents, Henry and Bertha Bordson; her brothers, Pervin and Merlin; her sister, Marilyn; and many dear in-laws.