Obituary for Celeste Kay Hockom

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Celeste Kay Hockom, 77, of Cedar Rapids Ia. She passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026, from complications of dementia.

Born on January 10, 1949, in Atlantic IA, to John and Leona Wilken, Celeste lived a full and remarkable life. An accomplished swimmer and member of the swim team in high school, she spent her summer days at Sunnyside pool.  She graduated from Atlantic High School in 1967. 

Celeste married Terry Hockom in 1968.  They had two children, Darci (Hockom) Bunting and Aaron Hockom.  Celeste enjoyed being active in sports, coaching her kids and serving as scout leaders.  

Celeste’s family was her greatest joy, and her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Danielle, Heather, Kayleigh, Ian, Bryce, and Max; and her great-grandchildren, Wiley, Nixon, and Harlan. Some of her happiest moments were spent teaching her grands how to fish, garden, and hunt for a good bargain.

Celeste enjoyed winding down at Zeppelins after work on Fridays with her best friend Betty and loved taking backroad trips with her sister while tracing their family roots.

Celeste’s warmth, compassion, and sense of humor touched the hearts of everyone who knew her. She lived a life rooted in kindness, patience, and quiet strength. Her laughter filled every room she entered, and her unwavering love for her family will be felt for generations to come. 

Celeste was preceded in death by her beloved parents, John and Leona Wilken, whose memory she carried tenderly throughout her life. She is survived by her daughter, Darci Bunting; her son, Aaron Hockom and wife Jenny; her sister, Cynthia Wilken Sievers; and her brothers, Mark and Eric Wilken; grandchildren Danielle Hecker (Kyle), Heather Bunting, Kayleigh Bunting, Ian Bunting, Bryce Bunting and Max Hockom; great grandsons Wiley, Nixon and Harlan.

She is also lovingly remembered by her nephews: James Rhodes and family and Christopher J. H. Wilken and family; as well as first cousins Jane Kay, Regina Pinedo, Rick Draman, and David Draman. She also leaves behind her dear friend, Betty.

A celebration of life will be held from 1:00 to 4:00 on June 6th at the Rose Garden Pavillion at Ellis Park in Cedar Rapids, where family and friends will gather to share memories and honor the beautiful spirit she was. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with her loving parents.

Forever loved and dearly missed, Celeste will remain in our hearts always. We love you to the moon and back.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions to help offset funeral costs. Donations can be made via https://everloved.com/life-of/celeste-hockom/donate/.