Dorothy Gean Loken

Dorothy Gean (Holey) Loken, age 92, of Breckenridge, MN, passed away, surrounded by her loving family, on Monday, December 2, 2024, at St. Francis Home, Breckenridge. A visitation will be held in her honor, Friday, December 13, 2024, 12-2 p.m., at Joseph Vertin and Sons Funeral Home.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Joseph Vertin and Sons Funeral Home. 

Dorothy was born on February 23, 1932, to Lars and Mary (Bishop) Holey, in the quaint town of Clearwater, NE. She attended grade school there and later, graduated from Fergus Falls High School. Dorothy went on to pursue a certification through beauty school in St. Cloud, MN. While there she met Gerald Wayne Loken and on December 24, 1955, they united in marriage in St. Cloud, MN. They lived in the upper Midwest, mostly Minnesota and North Dakota. While living in Fargo, Dorothy spent her time raising her children and investing in their formative years. After the children were grown and in school, Dorothy began a lifelong career as a Certified Nursing Assistant, where she devoted herself to caring for residents in nursing homes and assisted living home in Fargo/Moorehead area. 

Dorothy was not just a nurturer by profession; she was a nurturing spirit at home. The fragrant aroma of fresh-baked donuts, apple pies, and artisan bread wafted through her kitchen where she spent countless hours creating baked goods that brought her family together. Her family was her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent sharing meals, laughter, and memories with them. Christmas held a special place in her heart-it was a time when all were drawn together, wrapped in love and warmth. 

In her free time, Dorothy enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. She immersed herself in puzzles, reading, and listening to romance novels on audiobook. Bingo nights were a highlight for her, second only to watching the Minnesota Twins. Most recently Dorothy developed a newfound love for exercise where she made meaningful relationships with her physical therapists. 

Dorothy will be deeply missed by her children, Carrie (Darrel Sr.) Walker, Rick Loken, Barbara (John) Odden, Eugene (Cathy) Loken, Melanie Stephanie, Penelope (David) Daugherty, Becky Loken, and Paul (Jessica) Loken; 25 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; God-daughter, Audrey Stock; sister, Mary Ingbretson; and many other family members. 

She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Gerald; parents Lars and Mary; and 14 siblings.