Don Hawkes, 75, peacefully passed away surrounded by his family on Sunday, January 12, 2025. There to greet him were his parents, Keith and Barbara, his brother Rob, and a slew of cats. He left behind his loving wife of 52 years, Dorinne, his children Jennifer Huseman (Andy), Sarah Foor (Todd), Isaac Hawkes (Shayna), and Natalie Ortal (Ray), grandchildren Kelton and Kannon, sister Debbie Overton (Timothy), and sister-in-law Nancy Hawkes.
Don married Dorinne in November 1972. During the next 12 years they had four children born in Arizona and Utah. In 1977 Don studied to be a civil engineer and culminated his career with being the Water Utilities Manager at the City of Tempe. He retired in 2013 after 23 years with the City.
During the years that they were married and raising their family Don was always an advocate for doing fun things. Don’s motto was “The Family that Plays Together Stays Together.” Some of the fun things were boating, hiking, Lake Powell’ing, traveling, geocaching, caving, RVing, cruising, and many adventures were enjoyed with family and/or good friends. In addition, Don could never pass up a good prank. Many memories have been made. Don was full of fun, optimism, and cheer. Don could fix or rehab anything. He built a house in Fruit Heights, he renovated his Arizona home, and he installed solar on his RV and boat. For relaxation, he completed difficult crossword puzzles, sat in the sun, and enjoyed nature.
His fun laugh, humor and cheerfulness was much loved and will be missed by his family and friends.
A celebration of life is planned for Saturday January 18, 2025, from 2pm to 6pm at the Hawkes home.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
So sorry for your loss. I enjoyed your travels last summer. In your trailer. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family! May the Lord bless you all during this difficult time.
What a wonderful and fun friend. We have fond memories of good times together at Lake Powell.
It was great to read Don’s obituary and learn a few things we did not know. We always enjoyed his company at many family reunions and yes, he liked to have his fun. The last one was at Vernal, Utah just six months ago.
We’re glad he did not have to suffer for too long . . . how you’ll miss him Dorrine (and family) however with your outgoing personality we know that, given time, you’ll be able to face life’s challenges . . . until you meet again.
Much love, cousin Claude Taylor, Jenny also.
I am very sad to hear this news. My heart breaks with you. Don was a great person, I’m sorry you’ve had to say goodbye so early. Thank you for sharing those beautiful memories. I’m praying and sending hugs.
He was a great boss at a time I needed one … never really socialized with Don, but if there ever was a guy I could enjoy being around and partying with, it would have been Don. RIP Big Don, you will be remembered !!!
Sad reading about Don’s passing. I’ll miss his prank pot-shots at me on Facebook. I was the guy who replaced him as quarterback on the Viewmont JV team when they moved him to varsity. We were great friends in Jr High…I’ll miss him. Condolences To His Family…
Our dear friends, Ellen and Louie Pastor invited us to cruise Alaska with Don and Dorinne. Fun was the opetative word
We entered the realm of Crack of Don Tours.
Don taught us how to get around in port. We are blessed to have known Don.
He always made sure everyone had a good time. Our condolences to Dorinne and family.
All our love, Lou and Deb
Sending our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the bereaved family. May Don Rest In Eternal Peace.
Doreen mi amiga! Becky and I are here for you. I’m no good for this but our condolences. Hugs and love from us today and always.
Tu amigo de Zihua!
How bad we feel for this. Words are hard to write. We wish we do say or do more. The Bible says “death is a enemy” Wish we could carry your pain for you. We want you to know that your family are in our thoughts and feelings.
Dorinne and family, I read about the passing of Don in Kris Olsen’s email this past week. Jeff and I are so sorry for your loss. I read his obituary and there is absolutely no doubt how many great memories and love you will always have with him. He was definitely a fun guy with a fun family. We loved getting to know you and your family here in Fruit Heights. We enjoyed some fun and lasting memories as well. Our hearts are with you all and hope you can all be comforted and at peace at this difficult time. Take care and know our appreciation and love for each of you will always remain in our hearts as dear friends. Love, Chris and Jeff Shaw
Dear Sarah and family, I’m So sorry for your loss. I wish you comfort and peace remembering the love and memories you shared. Love, Marlene Kritzler
I just heard of Don’s passing today. I’m so sorry for your loss. He was an incredible man and such a caring boss. There are not words for how he helped me through the challenging work years
Don was a great person and leader. So sad to hear of his passing. Will say some prayers for the family.
Don was a great leader and friend he will not soon be forgotten.
Lorinda just shared the passing of Don or as we liked to call him “DHawk”. DHawk was an absolute joy to work with and around; his gentle disposition and his brilliant mind were so important to creating a positive culture for the entire Water and Public Works team. So sorry for your loss.