Gentry Shae Hockenbary, 4 months, of Powers Lake, ND went to be in the arms of Jesus on January 4th 2024 after a battle with heterotaxy syndrome.

Gentry, born to Derek and Alicia Hockenbary on August 14th 2023, was born with multiple heart defects. Due to this she was born in the Minneapolis Children’s hospital. Despite the odds she did not need immediate surgery which surprised her doctors. Eventually she had her first open heart surgery. She was a champ and healed up great. She got to come home for six weeks between October and November which her doctors said was a miracle in and of itself because of her conditions.

Gentry, affectionately called Baby Grinch due to her wisps of hair that stuck straight up, was lovingly tended to by her parents between giving meds, driving to appointments and being by her side in the hospital. The six weeks at home in Powers Lake were a very special time that she got to meet many family and friends. She got to hang out with her sister, Charlee, and brothers, Kahl and Waylon. She loved watching them play and snuggling up with them. They enjoyed it just as much. Her grandma Celeste, whenever she got the chance, would rock-a-bye sweet baby Gentry.

Gentry also loved her finding Nemo playmat, her o-ball toys, being read to, the ceiling light, and the tv. Gentry, showed us her smile often and it was truly the best especially when she got to spend time with her older girl cousins Myla and Avrielle. The time she got to spend at home will always hold a special place in everyone’s heart.

After those weeks her heart said it was time to go back to the hospital. She was a fighter and had a few surgeries between November and December. She had great care from a multitude of doctors and nurses throughout her entire journey but in the end her body had fought hard and was ready to be at peace.

Gentry is survived by her parents, Derek & Alicia Hockenbary; sister, Charlee; brothers, Kahl and Waylon; Grandma, Celeste Edwards; Grandpa, Terry (Janyce) Hockenbary; Grandma, Sandy Wellman; along with numerous Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins.

Gentry was preceded in death by her Grandpa, David Edwards; Grandma, Diane Hockenbary; Great Aunt, Vicki Osterbrink; Aunt; Karlee Edwards; Uncle Scott and Aunt Heather Hockenbary.