B. Dean Hokel

Rev. B. Dean Hokel, a remarkable soul whose life was dedicated to healing and compassion, passed away on September 21, 2024, in Tucson, Arizona. Born on December 11, 1947, in West Union, Iowa, Dean exhibited a warmth and generosity that touched the lives of many throughout his journey on this earth.

Throughout his life, Dean displayed a commitment to helping others with a distinguished career as a pastor, chaplain, and Certified Pastoral Educator. He devoted himself to the ministry, first being ordained as an elder in the United Methodist Church in 1981 and later becoming a valued member of the United Church of Christ clergy in 2002. Dean was a Board Certified Chaplain and a Clinical Pastoral Educator, tirelessly serving at Northwest Community Hospital (Arlington Heights, IL), Elmhurst Memorial Hospital (Elmhurst, IL), and during retirement within the Rincon Congregational UCC in Tucson and the Southwest Conference of the United Church of Christ. He offered love, guidance, and support to countless individuals, and many will forever cherish the moments spent with him; his great sense of humor and big laughter left an indelible mark on all.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Dean remember him as a loving and warm-hearted individual, always eager to lend a hand or a listening ear. His talent for creating works of art with stained glass mirrored his gift for brightening the lives of those around him—each piece imbued with the care and compassion that defined him. Dean's kitchen was often filled with the delightful aroma of cookies, as he reveled in hosting company and creating memories that would be treasured by family and friends.

His academic pursuits were equally inspiring; Dean was the first in his family to graduate from college, earning a Bachelor of Science from Iowa State University and a Master of Divinity from St. Paul School of Theology in Kansas City, Missouri. His dedication to education not only furthered his own journey but set a profound example for those who followed in his footsteps.

Dean is survived by his devoted husband, Craig L. Sale, and his beloved children: daughter Rev. Lana Williams, together with Pastor Jon Williams, and son Bruce Hokel. His heart was filled with pride for his grandchildren, Reba, Lilly, Layna, and Locke. He also leaves behind two sisters, Brenda Adams and Betty Campbell, along with his brother Joseph Hokel.

Though his presence will be deeply missed, Dean now joins his dearly departed loved ones, including his parents, Meryl and Reta Hokel, his sisters Barbara Hokel and Beverly Probert (Jere Probert), his brother Meryl Hokel Austin, his beloved grandson Hunter Williams, and his cherished father-in-law Donald Sale. The legacy of his love, laughter, and unwavering faith will continue to resonate within the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with this remarkable man.

Dean Hokel's life was a testament to the power of compassion, and his spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness and grace. Celebration of Life services will be held at Rincon Congregational UCC (122 N. Craycroft, Tucson, AZ) on October 13, 2024 at 2pm. Memorial donations may be made in memory of Dean to the Rincon UCC Good Samaritan Fund.