Hundreds of trees, dad jokes, and pie: Honoring the Hortmans one year later

5 hours ago 19

Published June 12, 2026 8:27 PM CDT

7 ways to honor the Hortmans

Almost one year after Melissa and Mark Hortman were fatally shot, FOX 9's Corin Hoggard shares how you can honor them.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - A year after the deaths of Melissa and Mark Hortman, their family and friends continue to find comfort and meaning in a list of tributes created by their children.

Honoring the Hortmans through acts of kindness and remembrance

What we know:

Colin and Sophie Hortman created a list of seven ways people could honor their parents. These include planting trees, visiting state parks, learning new things, telling dad jokes, baking, standing up for justice and peace, and petting a dog.

Hundreds of trees have been planted in the Hortmans’ names, with 150 coming from Achieve Services in Blaine.

"It's a testament to the impact that she made on so many lives and in the commitment for all of the people that know her and remember her to make sure that, you know, we leave a positive impact on her memory," said Rob Lane of Achieve Services.

Rep. Sydney Jordan said she thinks of Melissa Hortman whenever she sees a dog and remembers the joy that dogs bring people.

"I do think about Melissa when I see a dog now and really think about the joy that dogs bring people," said Jordan.

The Minnesota Legislature also renamed a bike trail in Lake County to honor Mark Hortman, reflecting his love for biking and the outdoors.

Friends and family reflect on the impact of the tributes

Why you should care:

These tributes are not just gestures—they have helped loved ones process their grief and celebrate the Hortmans’ legacy. Planting trees, learning new skills, and even telling dad jokes have become ways for people to connect with the couple’s memory.

Lisa Hortman Bean, Mark Hortman’s sister, said, "He was goofy with that. He was witty and quick and funny."

Baking has also played a role, with Melissa’s best friend, Robin Ann Williams, encouraging people to take shortcuts if needed. "I don’t want you to feel bad that you used a box mix for your cake last year because Melissa would whip up brownies when she needed to out of a box," said Williams.

Colin Hortman shared that seeing people fulfill the list has helped lift some of his grief. Williams added, "I honestly think it’s the most important thing that people can do."

The tributes have even inspired Colin to focus on standing up for what is right, especially justice and peace, and he has spent the past year encouraging politicians to tone down heated rhetoric.