Ann L.

Hoyord

Ann L. (Sorenson) Hoyord, 84, of Scandinavia, Wisconsin, went to her heavenly home on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.

Ann was born on October 6, 1942, in Iola, Wisconsin, to Norman and Ihla (Wogsland) Sorenson. She graduated from Iola-Scandinavia High School and attended Bethany Lutheran College. On September 23, 1961, she married the boy next door, Tom Hoyord, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Amherst Junction. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and love.

Ann was a devoted homemaker, a gifted pianist, and a steadfast follower of her Savior, Jesus Christ. She faithfully served for many years as organist at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Amherst Junction and Redeemer Lutheran Church in Iola, sharing her love of music and her deep devotion to the Lord.

Ever the optimist, Ann had a remarkable gift for making others feel loved and encouraged. Whether offering a compassionate ear, words of unwavering encouragement, or a helping hand wherever it was needed, she lived a life of quiet generosity and service to others.

Her greatest joys were often found in the simplest moments-a busy kitchen, rooms filled with family, and the laughter that came from being together. As the mother of 13 children, and grandmother and great-grandmother to so many more, Ann possessed a remarkable gift for making each person feel uniquely special and deeply loved. No matter how large the family grew, there was always room in her heart, her home, and her arms for one more.

Her quick wit and twinkling smile were often accompanied by giggles as children and grandchildren shared stories and cherished memories. Just as naturally, those joyful moments gave way to gentle hugs and the soft hum of a familiar tune as she cradled a little one in her arms.

Ann loved to read, enjoyed classic country and Western movies, and treasured time spent outdoors in her gazebo surrounded by her beautiful flowers, visiting with family and watching her beloved feathered friends.

Above all, Ann's life was a reflection of her faith and the love she so freely gave. Her kindness, gentle spirit, and steadfast encouragement touched countless lives. The legacy she leaves is one of enduring faith, a deep love of family, and the countless memories sure to bring smiles to those who knew and loved her.

Ann is survived by her sister, Marie Hein; her children, Brenda (Paul) Gard, Matt (Tammy) Hoyord, Mark (Pam) Hoyord, Susan (Jon) Loken, Tim (Denise) Hoyord, Chad (Deanna) Hoyord, Charlie (Heather) Hoyord, Tony (Jamaica) Hoyord, Jay (Kristen) Hoyord, Katie (Jake) Emmerich, Michael (Erika) Hoyord, and Luke (Dow) Hoyord; her son-in-law, Tom Gauerke; 38 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tom Hoyord; her daughter, Gwen Gauerke; and her parents, Norman and Ihla Sorenson.

A funeral service celebrating Ann's life will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Iola, with Rev. Greg Haugen officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 to 10:45 a.m. Interment will follow the funeral service at Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Iola. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Redeemer Lutheran Church.