Denise Kaye Hogenson

June 5, 1960 - February 11, 2026

Denise Kaye Hogenson, of Crookston, Minnesota, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of service, independence, and deep love for family, friends, and animals. Born on June 5, 1960, in Crookston, MN, Denise was the cherished daughter of Dennis "Ben" Hogenson and Grace Lucille (Langseth) Hogenson.

Denise graduated from Crookston Central High School in 1978 and went on to attend North Dakota State University and the University of Minnesota Crookston. She spent the majority of her life in the Crookston area, a community she deeply loved and remained devoted to throughout her years.

At a young age, Denise answered the call to serve her country by joining the United States Navy. During her eight years of honorable service, she was stationed in Puerto Rico, Greece, and the Virgin Islands. Her time in the Navy allowed her to travel, build lifelong friendships, and experience parts of the world she would fondly remember and often speak about.

Following her military service, Denise began her civilian career with TCI Cable TV Network. She later found her true calling with the Polk County Sheriff's Office, where she faithfully served as a 911 dispatcher for 27 years, from 1995 until her retirement in 2022. Denise was the calm voice in moments of crisis, providing reassurance and professionalism to countless individuals in times of need. Her dedication and steady presence made a lasting impact on her colleagues and the community she served.

Denise had a deep love for animals, especially her beloved cats, Daphne and Mindy, and previously her precious golden retrievers, Rusty and Morgan and cat Boots. She could often be seen taking them on long walks around the neighborhood, enjoying the simple pleasures of companionship and fresh air. She also had a passion for gardening, proudly saying she inherited her green thumb from her father, who was an avid gardener himself. Her yard was a reflection of her care and patience.

She found joy in reading, swimming, and spending time at the lake or near any body of water. Denise loved dining out and reconnecting with friends from her childhood and her Navy years. She treasured traveling, time with her nieces and nephews, and her step-grandchildren, whom she loved deeply. Though she valued family and friendships, Denise also appreciated solitude and was perfectly content in her own company.

Denise was previously united in marriage to Brian Waxler, through which she gained her very precious step-grandchildren, who held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her father, Dennis "Ben" Hogenson.

Denise is survived by her loving mother, Grace Hogenson; her brother, Bryan (Sandy) Hogenson of Roseau, MN; her niece and nephew, AJ (Andrea) Hogenson Roseau, MN and their children, Vivian and Colette; Hannah (Blake) Laxdal Edinburg, ND and their children, Todd and Turner; and her good friend, Stuart Benson, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Denise will be remembered for her quiet strength, her independence, her unwavering dedication to service, and the love she gave so freely to her family and her animals. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.Denise's family will celebrate her life with a memorial service on Monday February 23, 2026 beginning at 11:00 am at Stenshoel-Houske Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am.