Debra Ann (Edstrom) Hokkanen

HOLDEN – Debra Ann (Edstrom) Hokkanen, age 83, passed away on Saturday, August 24th, at home in Holden. Born in Worcester on August 23, 1941 to the late C. George Edstrom and Althea Mary (Richardson) Edstrom, Debra attended Worcester public schools, graduating from Commerce High School with the Class of 1960.

While attending high school, Debra worked for Peoples Savings Bank, Dr. Deranian’s dental practice, Stretch and Sew, and the Hemphill and Noyes Brokerage House. After marrying, Debra and Sam settled in Holden where, in their beautiful home, they showcased collectibles from their many adventures together.

Together with Sam, Debra bred and raised champion German Shepherds for many years under the kennel name AUSGANG, tying the world record for the most dual champions in a single litter two times. Over the years, they produced over 25 champions of record.

Debra was a member of the Worcester County Kennel Club, serving as its president for many years. She was president of the American German Shepherd Charitable Dog Foundation, Inc., president of the GSDC of Central Massachusetts, Inc., and Chairman of the GSDCA National Specialty for many years, in charge of securing show sites for over 20 years.

Debra will be dearly missed by all who had the honor of knowing her, including her brother David Edstrom and his wife Deborah Edstrom of Tampa, FL; her niece Kimberly Bivins and her husband Dr. Harold Bivins and their daughter Hannah Bivins of Tampa, FL.

Besides her parents, she is predeceased by her husband, Sam H. Hokkanen.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with her family from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Thursday, August 29th, at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A funeral service will take place at 11:00 am on Friday, August 30th, at All Saints Episcopal Church, 10 Irving St., Worcester, followed by burial at All Faiths Cemetery in Worcester.

To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit her tribute wall.