Donald Oliver Joseph Hawkins passed away August 6, 2026 .  Born November 21, 1937 in Kingston, Ontario, Canada he was the son of the late Edward Joseph and Corinne (Flynn) Hawkins.  Don was married to his loving wife, the late Carol (Spoor), for 60 years, and together they raised five children, Deborah (Patrick) Kearns, Kevin (Melissa) Hawkins, Lisa Wapen, Tish (David) Klein, and Cissy (David) Marotta; grandchildren David Armstrong, Ashley Klein, Bethany Hawkins, Kyle Hawkins, Morgan (Peter) Caputo, Kati (Kasey) Marotta, and Lacey LeViere; great grandchildren Makenna and Lucy Caputo; sister Louise (late George) Woodland; also several nieces and nephews.  Besides his parents Donald was also predeceased by his sisters Mildred (late Keith) Walton and Barbara (late Bud) Holtham.

In his younger years, Don worked as a Great Lakes mariner for Canadian Freighter Lines. He later became a dairy farmer on the family farm on Wolfe Island and also worked at the Kraft cheese factory on the Island.  Eventually, Don and his family moved to Lockport, NY, where he began a 30-year career with General Motors. He retired in 1993.

Don enjoyed many things throughout his life, including hunting, fishing, hockey, and golfing. But his greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends, especially at their cottage on Wolfe Island, Canada, where so many wonderful memories were made.

Don never met a stranger. He had a welcoming heart and always made people feel like part of the family. Anyone who crossed paths with Don was likely to leave as a friend. His love for those around him will be deeply missed.

Above all, Don cherished his family. His 60 years of marriage to Carol and the love he shared with his five children and those who came after them were among his greatest accomplishments and joys.

Don leaves behind a lifetime of memories, friendships, and love that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.  Memorials to Niagara Hospice or the Wolfe Island Fire Company would be appreciated by the family.  Visit pruddenandkandt.com.