Charles Hokanson (1875-1949) was born in Duluth, Minnesota. He was the son of Charlie and Sophie (Larson) Hokanson and came with his parents to Barnes County in 1878. His father died in 1887; his mother married Carl Olson. Charles, Albert, Henry and Ida Hokanson were raised by their mother and stepfather. Charles Hokanson gained his education in Valley City schools; he attended classes in one of the first school buildings which was later the "Fifth Avenue Hotel" run by Bob Burt. In 1898, Mr. Hokanson and Nellie Johnson were married at Erhard, Minnesota. They came to Valley City where they established their home and raised three daughters: Grace Mrs. Roop; Harriet - Mrs. Hongslo and Gladys - Mrs. Billing. Mrs. Hokanson died in 1949. Mr. Hokanson opened a meat market and later a restaurant. He was in the restaurant business for forty years with Carlsons, Sampson and the Grand Cafe. In the early days he served on the Valley City police force and was Police Chief in 1924-1925. His half brother, Harry and three half-sisters, are Jennie - Mrs. Kyle; Hilma - Mrs. Gust Lybeck and Clara - Mrs. Jacob Chulse. The Charles Hokanson family were affiliated with the Congregational Church.

Source: Barnes County History 1976 Page 104