Warren Henry Hawke (Hank) was born on September 18, 1923 in McMasterville, (Verchères) P.Q. to Gladys Bernadette Labrash and Anson Roy Hawke. At age four, Hank’s parents along with his brothers William Edward and Reginald Godfrey moved to Nobel, Ontario. Hank attended Nobel Consolidated School and then moved to Parry Sound where he completed his Grade 12.
Hank enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force as an aerial gunner in June of 1943. Sgt. Hawke transferred to Bomber Command England and R.C.A.F. Bomber Group #6 in 420 Squadron. He completed a tour of duties in Europe and returned to Canada as Flying Officer Hawke and a gunnery leader going to the far East. When the war ended in August 1945, Hank resumed his life as a civilian. After many jobs, he returned to the R.C.A.F. as an aircraft technician in 1951.
In 1956, Hank met Gudfinna (Goody) Finnson in Toronto, Ontario. Goody was from Wynyard, Saskatchewan. They married in 1964 at the R.C.A.F. Station in Bagotville, Quebec. The pair were always together as Goody was a civil service employee of R.C.A.F. Goody retired in 1984 and Hank in 1988 at C.F.B. in Ottawa. They were soon on the move and in 1990 they took up residence in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Goody passed away in December, 2011. Hank continued to reside in the condo they shared together.
Hank spoke much of his love and devotion for his wife Goody and their adventure together. Anyone who knew Hank will describe him as a man with a vivid and colourful memory and a talent for telling stories in incredible detail. He spoke of his time in the war. It was an honour to sit and listen to his stories and to learn of these events in history.
Hank’s presence uplifted the spirits of each and every person he encountered. He had a sense of humour and wit that was unmatched. He was a very generous and kind man. He was charming and loved to socialize. He enjoyed being in the company of family and friends. Hank was always on the go, well into his final years. He enjoyed every single excursion, whether it was out dancing, playing the horse races, walking to the grocery store or having coffee at the nearby coffee shop. One of his favourite outings was to Joey’s Seafood for fish and chips. Hank especially looked forward to each Remembrance Day as he would proudly don his medals and lay a wreath at the ceremony held at SaskTel Centre in Saskatoon.
Hank resided at Sherbrooke Community Centre (Veteran’s Village) for the last two years of his life. During this time, he became very fond of the nurses and staff, many of whom will look back on moments with Hank with a smile for years to come. In the ten days leading to his passing, incredible stories of Hank were shared and he made everyone feel special. He had that gift. He always spoke of how incredibly fortunate he felt. His departure from this life leaves behind fond memories and stories that are cherished by all that knew him as he was loved by all. May all those that knew Hank find solace in the memories they hold and in knowing that Heaven has gained a true hero and gentleman.
Hank was predeceased by his parents, his brothers, and his wife. He is survived by all that loved him.
Sincerest thanks and appreciation to all the staff at Sherbrooke and especially to his family in House #9 for the wonderful care and love given to Hank. He loved you all.
Hank’s wishes were that his remains be cremated. There will be no service at this time; but when it is safe to do so, memorials will be held and those that touched his life will be able to join in remembrance where we will honour him and tell our stories of Hank.
Donations may be made to the Veteran's Village House #9 at Sherbrooke Community Centre. 401 Acadia Dr, Saskatoon, SK S7H 2E7
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