Edith Elizabeth Hokanson Sten

Sept. 8, 1923 — Aug. 23, 2012

Edith Hokanson Sten (Blumenthal), born Sept. 8, 1923, passed away at home in Placerville Calif., on August 23, 2012. She was born in San Francisco to Oscar and Emma Hokanson, who had recently arrived from Sweden via Ellis Island.

Edith was a well known singer and performer in San Francisco. She started her singing career in her early 20s and went on to perform at many popular venues such as Sigmund Stern Grove, the Marines Memorial Hall and local USOs and hospitals. The talented soprano also sang with the San Franciso Opera, on radio shows and on early television programs and sang the National Anthem at Candlestick Park for the opening day of the San Francisco Giants. She also performed with local singing groups, including the Treble Tones and the Peninsula Choraliers. She served on the Millbrae Arts Commission for many years and worked for Weight Watchers during the 1980s and 90s.

In 1954 Edith met Melvin Sten and they married several months later on Mel’s birthday Jan. 29, 1955, the theory being that if they married on Mel’s birthday he would never forget their anniversary … and he didn’t. They were married for 56 years. They had one daughter, Doris, and in their later years lived with Doris, her husband, Rob and their son, Timmy in their home in Placerville. Years ago, when I asked my mom what she wanted included in her obituary she said “Just make sure you tell them all about my singing. That was always the most important part of my life.” She was a talented, beautiful woman who did things on her own terms.

The family would like to thank Melody Wilder for her many years of help with Edith and for loving all of us like we were her own. We would also like to thank Dr. John Rulison, Searese Cox and all of the staff at EDCCHC. Finally our unending gratitude goes to our friends, many of whom we consider family, who were always willing to offer a meal, a ride or just a tender moment to listen while we cared for my folks during these last six years.

At Edith’s request no services will be held. In lieu of flowers we ask that you send your donations to the El Dorado County Community Health Center (EDCCHC), 4327 Golden Center Drive, Placerville, CA 95667, attn: Judy Stein. Please notate “Sten” in the memo area. Edith and Mel both received excellent compassionate health care at the center and your donations will go to help others receive services they might not otherwise be able to afford.