John passed away December 8, 2019 after a series of strokes and seizures. He died peacefully at home surrounded by loving family members. He was 59 years old.
John was born October 8, 1960 in St. Paul, MN to Bernard and Shirley (Holm) Hawkins. As an infant, John and his family moved to Lake Elmo – into a new home in a small neighborhood just a stone's throw from Guardian Angel's Church, where the family was active members. He graduated from Tartan High School in 1979. Following graduation, he attended St. Paul TVI where he received an Associates degree in carpentry.
John worked as a carpenter for almost 30 years, much of that time as a part owner with J-Mar Builders, which is still a thriving business today. A subsequent career change found him working the last 13 years at the fuel farm at MSP airport, where he rose to be a manager.
John was a kind and gentle man who lived a quiet lifestyle. He had a bright and uplifting spirit, a great sense of humor, and respect for all who he encountered. His smile and sweet nature were infectious, and John was a consistent, selfless caregiver to those in need. John played hockey in his youth, enjoyed hunting, fishing, motorcycle trips, and woodworking. His family was very important to him, some of whom were golden retrievers and a black lab.
John is preceded in death by his parents, Bernard & Shirley Hawkins, and many extended family members. He is survived by his siblings Laurie Hawkins-Belden (Phillip), Christie Hawkins (John Saurer) and Mike Hawkins (Michele Niedernhoefer, deceased May 10, 2019); nieces Amy Hawkins, Samantha Hawkins-Smith and Anna Hawkins-Saurer; step niece Brynn Niedernhoefer; step nephew Nathan Niedernhoefer; many extended family and friends.
Memorial Service on Monday, December 16, 11:00 am at GUARDIAN ANGELS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 8260 4th St. N., Oakdale, with visitation one hour prior to Service. Interment immediately following at Guardian Angels Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (https://www.cff.org/) and Coco's Heart Dog Rescue (https://www.cocosheartdogrescue.org/donate-1/)