Don Hawker

Donald Raymond Hawker, 92 years old, only a week shy of his 93rd Birthday, passed away peacefully in his sleep, on February 8, 2019

at the Colonel Belcher Carewest, Calgary, AB.

Don will be remembered by his loving wife Sheila Hawker (nee Fee),

of almost 65 years. His son, Brad Hawker (Johanna Barstad). His Daughters, Janet Hawker and Barb Hawker. Don's three cherished grand children: Justin Dyer (Lauren Aspden) Son of Janet. Lauren Hawker and Callum Hawker, the children of the marriage of Brad and Kathryn Hawker (Bob Vargo). His niece Louise Hawker (Al Wilson) and so many other nieces and nephews and special sister in-laws.

Don is preceded by his parents Rose (nee Thacker) and Arthur Hawker, Don's brother Gordon (Mary) and his very special cousin, Doug Thacker, whom was more like a close brother, to Don. Husband to Neola Thacker.

Don was born in Westmount, QC, on February 14, 1926. Don attended Westmount High School until he joined the Navy. Upon concluding his service in the Navy, Don then attended Montreal West High School to complete his High School diploma. Don lived most his life in Montreal. Then, after 7 years enjoying Moncton, NB and briefly Cornwall, ON, until the call of the West and the arrival of Grandchildren, which enticed

a move West to the Rocky Mountains of beautiful Canmore, AB.

Don enjoyed uncountable fresh air outings, walking and enjoying the beautiful river paths, along side with Sheila. (Or, as Don would often refer to her endearingly as, Phyliss!!!)

Don had an incredible knack for Sales and telling many entertaining stories. Usually they were rather comical, or Don just put his own

unique slant on them, making them hilarious with Don's grand delivery.

("Let me take you back ....!")

As a young man of 21; Don fell in love with the Quebec Laurentians via his long-time friend Glen Magee. The Lake would then become Don's favourite place in the world! Where so many fun and fabulous memories were created during countless Summers, Spring and Fall weekends, along with some gorgeous winter day trips. These were enjoyed to the fullest, at a place known to so many dear and cherished friends, as

"The Lake". There was not much Don could not do, when it came to the ongoing demands of owning a magical Summer cottage and the forever maintenance and upkeep. The many wonderful memories created with his own family and so many delightful extended family and treasured friends; this place became Don's true haven. The enjoyment of having waterfront property was both a passion and a labour of love. Despite Don's many years of failing health; in true Don form, he handled it

with great courage, incredible resilience, never wanting to give up,

nor, ever complaining.

Don had a great fondness for his beloved furry friends. Chub, his childhood dog. Later, family pets Peppy and Scout. In more recent years, Don thoroughly enjoyed the family additions of Rufus, Max, Milo, Seymour and Blue. Many of these marvelous animals also enjoyed the river walks and Benchlands along side Don, with Sheila and the family, when visiting.

Family and close friends conducted a small graveside ceremony on Thursday, May 16, 2019 at 11:30 AM at the Canmore Cemetery.

The family then invited others to join them at 1:00 PM to honour

Don with a Celebration of Life gathering and memorial at the

Canmore Opera House, 400 Spring Creek Dr. in Canmore

A special thanks to the following: Dr Hawkins and staff for his dedicated care over many years! The Canmore Lodge Staff and the wonderful Home Care Staff, that became friends. All the devoted staff at the Cornel Belcher Carewest - Dieppe House, ensuring Don was cared and tended to, in the best possible way. We are so grateful for you all.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcome donations to: Veterans Affairs Canada. Payments can be made mailed to the Receiver General of Canada. Veterans Affairs Canada, Attn: Alan Mackenzie

P.0. Box 770, Charlottetown, PE C1A 8M9

Services provided by Russ Reynolds and Bow River Funeral Service.