Ed Hawkins, AKA Hawk, age 76, passed away on Sunday, June 25, 2023, at the Mabie Skilled Nursing Facility. Ed was the second son born on Oct 7, 1946, to Johnie and Fred Hawkins Jr. They lived on their apricot ranch on the Bolsa until the boys were of school age. They moved into town and built a home so the boys could go to city schools. Ed helped on the ranch with his parents working long hours and hard manual labor with much respect for handwork and integrity.
Ed graduated from San Benito High School in 1964 and started working at a gas station until 1966 when he went into the Air Force. He was stationed at George Air Force Base in Victorville then in 1968 he was transferred to Paines Air Force Base in Everett, Washington, where he worked as a mechanic on jet engines. He was discharged in 1970 as Sgt. Ed Hawkins when he returned to Hollister, California. In 1970 he started working at Tiffany Motor as a mechanic, then he was their service manager who went on to school to be a bus driver instructor. In 2005 he retired. Where he took up riding Harley Motorcycles across the country (run for the wall and Sturgis). He has continued to enjoy riding with friends on trips across the US and has hit all but three states. He also continued his deer hunting with friends, going out of state Ed was a very personable man who would help you in an instant.
He is survived by his wife, Wilma of 50 years of marriage. Their daughter Suzanne, Salt Lake City Utah, their son Stephen and daughter in law Melissa, Cathedral City. Six grandchildren, Ashley and husband Robbie, Amanda & husband Steven, Stephen Jr, Melina, and Elena Hawkins and Greg Hagen III and a great-granddaughter. Many nieces, nephews and cousins. His mom, dad and brother Fred preceded him in death.
His love for all his different families will be missed. So, one last drink to my family and friends. I love you. Will see you when we see you.
Memorial Service:
Veterans Memorial Building, 649 San Benito St in Hollister. Saturday, August 12, 2023, at 11 a.m.