Verna Lorraine Hoxsie took her first breaths into her next life on July 8th, 2016. Born to Ralph and Rose Arguello Hines April 29th 1924 in Fairmead California, her family later relocated to West Los Angeles. Verna was one of nine children and was infinitely proud of her Spanish heritage, the Arguello family being among the first settling families of California. Verna's family moved in 1935 to Greilickville in Leelanau County. She graduated from Traverse City High School in 1941 where Larry Hoxsie caught her eye. Years passed and they reacquainted while Verna was working for Michigan Bell. They married in 1947 and built a small log cabin on Tibbets Lake, later moving to their home on the farm in Bates.
Verna brought four children into the world and with Larry, provided a tremendous life for them. Verna began what is now Hoxsie's Farm Market with six quarts of cherries placed on her front porch table and through the years she was known for the heaping portions she gave. Verna's generosity was also evident as she lovingly and patiently cared for her children, welcomed into her home aging parents and continually reached out to people in need.
In addition, she was a gracious hostess and possessed a flare for decorating. Verna designed she and Larry's retirement home for entertaining. It was a place of joy for all who entered. Verna avidly fished for bass in her "front yard" of Grand Traverse Bay and was a ruthless Scrabble player. She also enjoyed Arizona, where she and Larry spent winters. Verna had the opportunity to travel to many beautiful destinations, but, always said that their home on the bay was truly "Heaven On Earth".
During later years, Verna was an unceasingly compassionate care giver for Larry, her husband of 62 years. After his passing,Verna spent six years in Grand Haven, returning this past June to Traverse City. She was able to once again see her beloved Grand Traverse Bay and re unite with additional family. Verna also received the priceless gift of meeting the staff at Bay Ridge Assisted Living. They provided her with the same tender, selfless care that she had always bestowed upon others.
Verna's family will miss her immensely, however, they know that her goodness and unfailing kindness will be with them all the days of their lives. Verna is survived by her sister Grace Corrigan, brother Walter Hines, her three children Dennis (Judy) Hoxsie, Loren (Cristina) Hoxsie and Jennie Arguello (Lee Dake), daughter in law, Gayla Hoxsie, seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Verna was preceded in death by her parents, sister and brothers, her husband Larry, son Ted, and grandson Tyler Hoxsie.
A celebration of Verna's life will be held Tuesday, July 19th 11:00a.m. at Mt. Holiday Ski Area; 3100 Holiday Rd., Traverse City, MI 49686. Please dress casually and bring your favorite memories.
In lieu of flowers,donations may be directed to Hospice of Michigan, 10850 E., Traverse Hwy. #1155, Traverse City, MI 49684 (
www.hom.org
) The Leelanau Conservancy, P. O. Box 1007, Leland, MI 49654 (
www.leelanauconservancy.org
) or Mt. Holiday 3100 Holiday Rd., Traverse City, MI 49686 (
www.mt-holiday.com
)