Clarence Hawking

Clarence Hawking, Bloomington, IN, passed away on Wednesday, June 28th, 2023 at the age of 101. Clarence was born October 24th, 1921 in Chicago, Illinois to Gertrude and Ernest Hawking, who immigrated to the United States from Cornwall, England.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Norman Hawking, and his nephew Thomas Hawking. Clarence was a loving and devoted husband who is survived by his wife of 80 years, Lorraine Hawking. He was a wonderful and inspirational father to his 4 children, Ellen (Hank) Binder, Catherine (John) Hickey, Paula (Pat) Gardner, Andrew (Tina) Hawking. He was the much loved Gramps to his 10 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and his nephew and niece.

Clarence led a full and rich life. At Hirsch High School in Chicago, where he was captain of the track team, he met his future wife Lorraine. He joined the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II, where he served on the East Coast and in the South Pacific. After the war, he took advantage of the G.I. Bill and attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago for four years. He concentrated on classes in the graphic arts and art history. He earned his B.A. Degree from Purdue University.

He worked as one of the Chief Designers for Jack Denst Designs in Chicago. One of his silk screen designs, “When in Rome”, is included as part of the museum collection at the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Museum in New York City. Near his retirement years, he continued his work in graphic design for the State of Indiana.

His personal interests included studies of religions, languages, and history. He enjoyed sports, music, and reading. He supported all his children’s and grandchildren’s activities, and often created games, decorative objects and art for them.

His family is indeed blessed to have had his wit, charm, and unconditional love for so many years.

A memorial service is pending and will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider making a donation in memory of Clarence to the Disabled American Veterans (dav.org), the Ellettsville, (IN) Library or the Monroe County Humane Society.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.DayDeremiahFrye.com for the Hawking family.