William Donald Hawthorne

Our Dad was born in Portland Oregon. He was the oldest sibling of a large family. Right out of high school at the age of nineteen Dad joined the Navy. He proudly served his country for four years during the Korean War. When he got out of the service he returned to Portland where our mother was waiting to marry him. They eventually relocated to Southern California. They settled in Norwalk where our Father got a job with Jorgenson Steele Company. Dad was so proud to have been with that wonderful company for twenty-five years. Any time he could, he loved to show off his watch that Jorgenson gifted him after his twentieth year of service. There were always stories to be told of his fond memories working there.

Dad and Mom had three children Kathleen, David, and John. They also decided to become foster parents where they cared for many children through the years including Jessica Duke and Michael Young who added so much love and happiness to our Fathers life.

William, better known as Don, was a loving, giving dad. He worked six days a week, but always spent his one day off devoting his time to his children. Taking us to the park, going on camping trips or just going for ice cream. Our Dad was the best example of what a father should be. Teaching his children right from wrong, how to face life with a smile and to always look ahead to the future.

Dad always said he couldn't wait to be promoted to Grandpa. His grandchildren loved being around him and listening to the stories of long ago. His travels during war, his love for all things fishing and camping but most of all the stories of family. He always greeted you with a smile and a laugh and anyone that got a chance to meet him knew why it was so easy to love him.

We miss him but we know we will see him again.

We Love You Daddy.