Gerald Thomas Hawkins was born in Detroit, MI on May 5, 1947 to Spencer and Simone Hawkins. While in High School, Gerald studied trades in Wood and Machine Shops. He graduated from Ferndale High School in June 1965. Gerald worked as a Steel Machine Operator and Annealer operating steel saws, Bridgeport’s, heat treatment furnaces and other machinery for Haglestein Manufacturing Company, Copper Brazing and other machine shops. During the summer of 1983 he married his wife Mary Ruth Hawkins. Ruth and Jerry did not have any children together.
Jerry had a passion for fishing, swimming and billiards. He was always up for playing dice and cards (rummy and poker). He also enjoyed going to the casino if the opportunity arose. He understood what values were and cared for his family especially his grandchildren. Gerald had a strong Catholic faith, was humorous, outspoken and liked to sing. He enjoyed telling jokes, listening to Country Music and putting on his charm.
He was preceded in death by his father Spencer, his mother Simone, brother Tom (Brenda), his granddaughter Lynsey McEvoy. He is survived by his daughter Martha (Rob) and his grandson Ethan McEvoy of Rochester Hills, sister Kathy Mills (Johnny) of Roseville, brother Don Hawkins of Florida and several cousins, nieces and nephews. Private family services will be held at Pixley Funeral Home, 322 W. University Drive, Rochester. Rev. Marc Schwichtenberg will officiate. Interment at White Chapel Memorial Cemetery.
