Obituary of Thomas Richard Hawken

It is with great sadness that we had to say goodbye to Tom Hawken who passed away with his loving family by his side at the Chatham-Kent Hospice on July 21, 2024. Beloved husband of Heather for 55 years. Dear father of Sharon (Chris) Kingsbury, and Jon (Ginny) Hawken. Tom loved and was so proud of all of his grandchildren, Chloe and Ryan Kingsbury, and Mallory and Eddie Hawken. Dearest brother to Jack (Carol) Hawken, brother-in-law Bill McKenzie, sister-in-laws Betty Beaulieu, and Goldie Hawken. Beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents Jim and Mary Hawken, sister Marilyn Gill (Bert), brother Bill, in laws Lionel and Kay Freeman, sister-in-law Sharon McKenzie, and brother-in-law Lionel Freeman.

Tom had a full and great life as an educator working 25 years at Lambton-Kent Composite School, and finishing his last 5 years as a Vice Principal at Ridgetown High School and LCCVI. Nothing pleased Tom more than coaching his high school basketball teams, whether taking them to Florida during Christmas break or going to Timmins for OFSAA. He was always so proud of the graduating students and their accomplishments or as he would joke “Not bad for small town Dresden hick kids”. He loved following their wonderful career paths.

Tom served 3 terms as a Town of Dresden councilor and was responsible for the building of the Dresden tennis courts. He was involved in Dresden Minor Hockey both coaching and assisting various teams over the years. Golfing was one of Tom’s greatest passions as he served on the board of Maple City Country Club and helped initiate the expansion of the clubhouse.

Tom had a wonderful retirement, traveling extensively, vacationing in Florida for the winters and spending his summers at the cottage in Blind River. Of course, a great poker game, whether with his poker buddies or family members was always a must.

The family wishes to thank the staff of the ICU at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance and the Chatham-Kent Hospice for their exceptional care. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation. As per Tom’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Friends and family are welcome to join in a Celebration of Life at the Dresden Legion, Br 113 on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 from 4 PM - 8 PM. Arrangements are entrusted to the Badder Funeral Home & Reception Centre, Dresden. Online donations and condolences may be made at www.badderfuneralhomes.com.