Edward F. Lonkoski

Edward “Jake” Frank Lonkoski, age 87, of Brownsville and formerly of Hokah, MN, passed away peacefully Monday, April 28, 2025, at the Onalaska Care Center. Jake was born on January 20, 1938, in La Crosse, WI, to Edward and Margaret (Tanke) Lonkoski. He grew up in Hokah and graduated from Houston High School in 1955. After high school, Jake proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1956 to 1960.

Following his military service, Jake moved to California. During his time there, he owned and operated a Winchell’s Donut Shop and worked as a city worker for South Gate, CA. While living in California, he met Charlotte Gill. They later married and had two daughters together, Lisa and Kimberly. Although Jake and Charlotte later divorced, they remained connected through their family.

Jake later returned to Minnesota, where he built a life centered around hard work, family, and community. He owned and operated Jake’s Bar, a local gathering spot that became a second home to many for 18 years. He also worked as a rural mail carrier for over 20 years and later managed Wildcat Park and Landing for 17 years, welcoming visitors to the area. Jake took great pride in all his work, but his greatest pride was always his family, friends and his town.

Jake was a longtime member of the Hokah Lions Club for 30 years and the American Legion Post #498 for 45 years. He served as mayor of Hokah from 1979 to 1990 and remained dedicated to the town and its people throughout his life.

Jake is survived by his daughter, Lisa Lonkoski, his granddaughter, Morgan Dayton, his sister, Judy Lonkoski, and his son-in-law, Bill Sheehan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Margaret (Tanke) Lonkoski, his brothers, Richard and Robert Lonkoski, Charlotte Gill, the mother of his children, his daughter, Kimberly Sheehan, and his grandson, Jacob Dayton.

To those who knew him, Jake will be remembered for his steady presence, sense of humor, and unwavering loyalty to the people and places that mattered most. He lived simply, gave generously, and never turned down a good story or a strong handshake.

The family extends thanks to the staff at the Onalaska Care Center for their care and support.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Hokah. Rev. John L. Evans, II will officiate. Burial will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 10 AM until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hokah Lions Club or St. Peter’s Catholic Church.