Charles "Ted" Edward Hawkins

Charles “Ted” Hawkins , age 88, passed away peacefully on July 27th. He was reunited with his sweetheart, Jane Openshaw who had preceded him in death a few weeks earlier. Their marriage of 62 years was a testament of loyalty, love and the joy of walking through life hand in hand. He will also be with his sons, Matthew and Zachary.

Ted was born on May 19th 1937, to Agnes Farrer Hawkins and James Oscar Hawkins and from a young age, He showed the quiet strength and compassion that would define his life. He was a steady, gentle presence—the kind of man who made others feel safe, heard and important. Whether he was cheering on his kids from the sidelines or chatting with a cashier at the grocery story, he offered his full attention, always willing to pause for a teaching moment or just a good laugh.

Ted loved his family with his whole heart. He was proud father of Jennifer Hawkins Gardner, Matthew Edward Hawkins, Zachary Adam Hawkins and Emily Jane Hawkins. And a beloved grandfather of Lauren Nicole Wilmarth (Matt), Whitney Jane Gardner, Marron Olivia Gardner, Asher Thomas Hawkins Marcus and Sophie Jayne Marcus. Every phone call, every quiet moment—he made it count. He cheered the loudest, listened the longest and loved without limits.

He served faithfully as a Bishop, on the High Council and in many other capacities in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Of all his callings, his favorite was teaching the youth. Nothing brought him more joy than guiding and uplifting young people. His influence reached far beyond the classroom—he had a profound impact on the youth, single adults, and everyone he met. Many youths have written letters to him about how He helped them change their life and how kind He was to them.

Ted also had a great love for hamburgers—especially the ones he made himself “Charlie Burgers” were famous among the youth. They would come and talk and eat a good burger knowing they were always welcome. He knew every burger joint in the town, and he and his buddies would meet up almost weekly to have a chat and catch up.

He was also a fantastic golfer—with a swing as smooth as his sense of humor. He won many amateur tournaments over the years and could outdrive about anyone, no matter their age. He made it look effortless.

Another one of his greatest joys was fly fishing with his kids, especially on the rivers of Utah. He cherished those quiet evenings casting a line in water surrounded by nature. The riverbanks held so many memories—not just the fish caught, but he hearts connected.

In the final chapter of his life, Ted remained steady, strong and sure. His daughters and grandchildren will remember his voice, his unwavering example and his quiet testimony of the Savior. He truly embodied the truth that one man can make a difference—a lesson he lived, and one we will carry forward in his honor.

Ted is survived by his 2 daughters Jennifer Hawkins Gardner and Emily Jane Hawkins and his grandchildren Lauren (Matt) Wilmarth, Whitney Gardner, Marron Gardner, Asher Thomas Hawkins Marcus and Sophie Jayne Marcus, and three Great Children, Lincoln Matthew Wilmarth, Olivia Jane Wilmarth and Jackson Bret Wilmarth.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 2nd, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at the Millcreek Canyon Ward, located at 3510 South 3610 East, Salt Lake City, Utah 84109. A visitation will be held from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the same location.