Velta Maria Hakala, who was lovingly known as Marie, age 87, passed away peacefully on December 27, surrounded by love. She was born on May 2, 1938, in Greenfield, Iowa, to Floyd and Velta Price. Throughout her life, Marie was known for her deep and unwavering faith, her kind heart, and her unconditional love for her family. She had a gentle way of making everyone feel seen and cared for, whether through her thoughtful words, quiet presence, or the comfort she brought simply by being herself. Her faith in God was central to who she was and guided how she lived, loved, and served others.

Marie lived with grace, compassion, and humility, and she took great comfort in her relationship with her Lord and Savior. It brings peace to her loved ones knowing she was ready and happy to be welcomed home, reunited with her husband and her parents, and embraced by her Lord and Savior. Marie shared 52 loving years of marriage with her husband, Paul, whom she cherished deeply. Paul preceded her in death on March 20, 2010. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her in-laws, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends. Family meant everything to Marie.

She is survived by her daughter Lynette and son-in-law Johnny, and their children Tommy, Carlyn, Courtney, Alicia, Abby, Anna, DJ, Lilly, and Gracie. She is also survived by her daughter Linda and son-in-law Rick McNamara, and their children Ricky, Nicole, Angie, Jacob, Emily, and Matthew. She was also blessed with over 31 great grandchildren each of whom brought her immense joy, and her many friends that she cared so
deeply about. She will be remembered for her kindness, her quiet strength, her gentle spirit, and the deep love she gave so freely. Though she will be deeply missed, her love, faith, and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. A visitation will be held on January 5th from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m at White Funeral Home in Lakeville, Minnesota, followed by a service to honor and celebrate Marie's life beginning at 11 AM