Dorothy W Hawke

Born on June 17, 1931, Dorothy (Dottie) grew up In Jenkintown, PA, the only child of Theodore and Dorothy Whitaker.

Dorothy graduated from Ogontz Junior College, where she was a participant in many sports, and a member of numerous Photography, Music, and Drama Clubs. An accomplished pianist, Dorothy then attended the Philadelphia Conservatory of Music after which she dedicated herself to The Shriner’s Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Dorothy married the love of her life, George, on April 10, 1954, the two being together for just shy of 64 years. Shortly thereafter, Dorothy turned her focus to raising her five children, being a frequent attendee at their sporting events and school productions, while instilling in them a love for animals with their numerous, often rescued from the outdoors, pets.

Loving photography and travel, she and George travelled to Europe, Russia, and Africa, the latter a photographic bonanza on their three-week safari.

With a fondness for artistic endeavors, Dottie dabbled in needlepoint and decoupage, followed by designing and creating porcelain dolls. Her life-long passion for animals resulted in co-owning and showing Gordon Setters, including Nike and Nirvana, both of whom competed at Madison Square Garden.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, George, parents Theodore and Dorothy, and her son, Gary.

She is survived by her daughters, Christen Flavion (Jim), Deborah Hawke Spencer, Catherine Rubino (Steve), Cindy Scanlan, nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

A family graveside service will be held on February 15, 2025 at St. Davids Radnor Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

P.A.L.S Cat Rescue in Devon, PA. http://www.palspets.org

Shriner’s Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia. https://donate.lovetotherescue.org