Douglas James Hawker

Doug was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan to a loving family. He had a varied and adventurous life as a college student, farm hand, and firefighter before marrying his wife, Lois, in 1973. Together, they quickly set out on having a large family of five children, moving to Florida in 1980. Doug worked as a diesel truck mechanic for the majority of his career, and often held two or three jobs to support his family.

Placing his children first in his life, he aspired to provide a good education along with an active extracurricular experience for his children. Doug was often at his children's band competitions and shows still wearing his work uniform, complete with sweat and grease, so he could support their endeavors. He would also frequently take his family for outings on their small boat for fishing, island hopping, and water skiing.

Doug was honored for his fatherhood efforts by being named one of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' "Best Dads in the Bay" in both 2008 and 2009. He was one of the founding members of Resurrection Catholic Church in Riverview, Fla., physically helping to build the church with his own hands. He also played the part as "Pilate's Secretary" in the church's annual Passion Play for almost two decades. Doug retired in 2009 and enjoyed the remainder of his life at his home and in the Florida sunshine.

Doug was preceded in death by his wife of thirty-two years, Lois A. Hawker (née Donajkowski, 2005); father, Stanley M. Hawker (1993); mother, Marguerite G.Hawker (1983); step-grandson, Alex M. Boothby (2021). Survivors include his two brothers, David and Don Hawker; five children, Theresa G. Boothby, Stanley L. Hawker, Nicholas J. Hawker, Nathan T. Hawker, Andrew D. Hawker; granddaughters, Victoria E. Hawker and Kammy A. Boothby. The Hawker family would also like to recognize Doug's long-time companion, Cheryl Messer, who resided with him from 2011 until his passing.

Matthew 11: 28-30

Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.

A graveside service for Douglas will be held 12 p.m. Thursday, October 19, 2023 in Garden of Memories Cemetery, 4207 East Lake Avenue, Tampa, Florida.