Mark William Hawkins

Shocked, saddened, heartbroken, devastated. The emotional roller coaster we all have been forced to ride will eventually stop. What will not stop are our memories of our 'Marky-Mark', 'Markalicious', and a great true friend. Mark was overflowing with love for his family. He was so proud of everything his kids did: Alex with his archery, rowing, and art... Thomas and his amazing football skills... and Sarah, his princess. He was so proud of Stephanie's Scrapbooking skills and loved how she captured all of their ongoing memories. Winding Way will never be the same. Our lives will never be the same. There is a new shining star in the night sky and it's comforting to know we only have to look up and smile and know that Mark is smiling down on us all.

I've worked with Mark for almost 6 years. Over that time he became my good friend and was like an older brother to me. He was one of the few reasons I enjoyed going into work. He always put a smile on my face and made me laugh without fail. He was my Starbucks (or as he called it 5bucks!) coffee break buddy. He was the first to help me out with my silly home and car questions and he would drive all the way from London to Woodstock on short notice to help spare on my volleyball team. He was a joy to be around and a giving person. It was obvious that he loved his family. He talked about you proudly all of the time. I will miss him a lot. My thoughts and prayers are with your whole family during this difficult time.

Stephanie, Alex, Thomas and Sarah our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I remember on the few occasions when I met Mark he was such a friendly, outgoing man, with that big smile and a great personality. You could tell his family was his priority. He welcomed our son Benjamin into his home. He will be sadly missed. May he rest in peace.

My deepest sympathy to you and your family...I never met Mark but am sure he will be missed dearly by those who loved him..

I have worked with Mark for many years. He was always very professional and positive, and knew how to make a difference. We lost a great colleague and an excellent health and safety officer. We will miss him very much. My deepest sympathy to his wife Stephanie and his sons of whom he was always talking with love and great respect. God bless you.

Dear Stephanie, We were saddened to hear about the tragedy. Even though words can't alleviate the pain of this great loss, please accept our thoughts and prayers in these difficult moments.

Dear Stephanie and Family On behalf of Rebecca, Olivia, Claudia, my husband Ulisses and I , I just want to say how shocked and sad we are to hear of your loss. The first time I met Mark, I left thinking what a nice guy he was. He was very cheerful and friendly and I could tell he was a great dad.Holding on to fond memories will hopefully give your family the strength to cope. Everyone feels your pain. Take comfort in knowing that others care.

Our deepest sympathies to the family. Mark was a man full of life, so willing to help other's. He will be deeply missed.

Dear Stéphanie and Family We are so sad to hear about your loss. We want you to know that you are all in our prayers. Julie, Berny, Zachary & Tristan

Stephanie, Alex, Thomas, Sarah and extended Hawkins family, my heart breaks for all of you at this difficult time. Mark was a co worker and friend. He was a kind, generous, easy going guy who loved and adored his family. His sense of humour always made work more enjoyable and his advice and guidance on home and car repairs was always appreciated by me. He will be missed by so many. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. With deepest sympathy.

Some people say that a child’s early years are when they are most impressionable. For Parker, Coach Mark certainly did just that. Our family will forever be grateful to Mark for all he did for Parker’s confidence, pride and happiness. Mark was not just his football coach but a loved and respected friend. His laugh and genuine smile will be missed on and off the field. We are all very greatful to have had him in our lives. Our love, thoughts and prayers ares with Stephanie, Alex, Thomas and Sarah during this most difficult time.

Mark was my “go to guy” for all things football, cross border shopping and everything in between. Mark and I both started working for the government in 1987 but it wasn’t until I joined the Labour Program 14 years ago that I really got to know Mark and realize what a stand up guy he truly was. He was always the first person to offer up his expertise and assistance and for that I will be forever grateful. It was obvious to everyone how much he loved and adored his Stephanie, Alex, Thomas and Sarah. Mark was a true gem and my heart breaks for his family during this difficult time. He is already being missed. With deepest sympathy.

Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. We are so sorry. I have many fond memories. Wanda (Scott) and Dean Donmoyer

Stephanie, Alex, Thomas and Sarah, we want to express our deepest sympathies for your loss. Mark always encouraged his football players to do their best and have fun with the game. He had a passion for football and this made him a great coach and role model for the boys. May your fond memories bring some peace to you in this difficult time. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and God bless and grant you comfort in the days ahead.

Our memories of Mark were always such happy times when you and Mark, Alex, Thomas and Sarah shared birthday parties, special family occasions, and of course, many sporting events(Go Bulldogs!) with our children and grandchildren. We still can see Mark in the red bulldog costume cheering Thomas and Josh's team to victory. Mark was a superhero to so many people but most of all to you and your children. His dynamic presence wherever he went and his dedication to you and his children was so very evident to anyone he met. We are so saddened by your loss of such a wonderful and unforgettable, husband and father. Our hearts go out to you Stephanie and your children at this tragic time.

It is beyond our understanding why God needed to take Mark at this time, but knowing that he is now with him will hopefully bring you some measure of comfort. Our memories of him will always be what a kind and giving person he was and how much he loved football, the teams he coached and his Nexus card!! But above all how much he loved his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Stephanie, and your children Alex, Thomas and Sarah.

Dear Stephanie and the kids, Frances and I are profoundly saddened by your tragic loss and we pray that our God who gives and takes will provide all the support systems that you will need to sustain you, well into the future - Amen. May Our Lady be your guardian angel throughout this terrible ordeal and may She be at your side always. Remain strong Stephanie and know that we became a family at St. Marguerite's and will remain a family at St. Andre's so please do not hesitate to reach out for help or comfort - it will always be there for you and the kids..

Stephanie, Alex, Thomas, and Sarah. My deepest sympathies to your family. Your faith in God will guide you through this difficult time. I never met Mark, but I understand Heaven has gained an Angel.

Dear Stephanie and Family, Sorry we can't be with you at this time of great loss but know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your lovely family. God Bless you and comfort you in the days ahead. With LOVE.....

Dear Stéphanie and Family, we are so sad to hear about your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Stephanie, Alex, Thomas, and Sarah.... Mark was the best soccer coach I have ever had and a very good friend. It's extremely sad to see him go. My deepest sympathies go out to you and the entire Hawkins family. stay strong.

Stephanie, Alex, Thomas & Sarah, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Your husband and dad touched the lives of many and will never be forgotten. No words can express the sadness that we feel for you. xo

Dear Stefanie and family- Our most sincere and deepest sympathy to all of you. We were truly saddened and shocked over your devastating loss of such a devoted husband and wonderful father. Know that our thoughts and prayers will be with you now and forever...

This brings our profound sympathy to the Hawkins family at this time of shock and of such tremendous loss. You are in our family's thoughts and prayers. With deepest sympathy -- Rocky and Valerie Moretti

Our deepest thoughts and above all memories, memories and moments, remember those special moments/times; Racheshaa will be with your thoughts Alex big hugs

I wish to offer my most heartfelt condolences to Mark's family. I worked with Mark for over 20 years. He was passionate in his convictions, and compassionate in his feelings for others, and he always brought both of those qualities to his work. I always respected that about him. He was a good man, and I will miss him.

Sarah, Alex, Thomas and Sarah, my most sincere condolence to you all. I've been a colleague with Mark since 1997. I was most impressed with his vast knowledge about everything ranging from the best places to enjoy ethnic foods such as East Indian, Mexican, Middle Eastern to the best shoe store sales in Port Huron and beyond. Mark had a uniquely special way to endear himself to anyone whom he met via the stories which he would always so willingly share.........his sense of humour and laughter remain unparalled...........he will be greatly missed. My prayers are with you all and may his soul rest in peace.

Dear Hawkins Family: No words could heal the pain you are going through right now. Take comfort in the amazing response you have received and the amount of lives that Mark touched! He truly was an amazing man! We are honoured to have had him in our lives! May Mark rest in peace and your family strength to get through this difficult time!

Stephanie, Alex, Thomas & Sarah....my thoughts are with all of you at this time. Mark was not only my co-worker for the last 6 years but someone I considered a true friend. We spent hours together talking about our families and he was such a proud father. He was also an amazing mentor and wealth of knowledge at work...someone who I could always count on to know the right answer or know where to find it. I am so very thankful to have known such a kind, generous person and for the memories that will never be forgotten.

Stephanie, Alex, Thomas and Sarah......Mark truly helped rock our world at work. For the many years I've known him, he displayed the true measure of a man. More than a co-worker, a friend. He spoke always as a loving father to his children and partner to his wife. In many conversations over the years, and in his work, Mark showed his caring, his compassion and a sense of justice for all people. A genuinely good person. Funny. Smart. Fearless. And occasionally, well....just a guy!! Sports, sports cars and motorcycles. Or just a good smoked meat sandwich! We, along with you, will miss him and cherish those memories.

Stephanie and family, No words can express the shock that we feel from the loss of a wonderful man. He was truly a role model in your community and most of all an amazing father and husband. Please know that he will be watching with loving eyes and overseeing all of his wonderful family. Your family here in Ottawa are sending their love and prayers to all of you during this very difficult time.

Our love and prayers go out to Marks family . He was a wonderful man. We had only known Mark for e few years through football , he helped the kids , encouraged them to do their best , and still made sure they had fun. You could count on him to put a smile on your face with his humor . Mark will be greatly missed. Rest in peace .

My deepest sympathies for your loss Stephanie. You and your children are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I was not surprised to see the decision to set up a Memorial Fund in memory of your husband. This is typical of your family Stephanie, wonderful people so caring and and always giving back! I only had the chance to meet your husband during a few school functions and he was always such a fun and charasmatic character. I'm sure he will be missed by so many.

Stephanie, Alex, Thomas and Sarah.... There are no words that could ever bandaide such a tragic lost like this one - I don't understand. Please know that we consider you as our family and will stand by you through this troubling time. Your husband/father was an incrediable man, who had a wonderful talent to always put a smile on someone's face and lift their spirits. His laugh was infectionous and charismatic ways will be missed dearly, especially by the children. At the end of the day, it was always about the kids, the players or who is coming to the house for a hot tub. A comfort I do fine in all of this is to know that his legacy and spirit will be carried through his three amazing children. Much love....

One can only be so lucky as to meet a man as amazing as Mark. He was an amazing friend and man to so many. Our deepest sympathies go to you and your family Stephanie, as no possible words can ever say enough of how much he will be missed by all. He was the best man on the side lines as he always there to cheer his team on. Again if there is anything you need please know that we will be here for you.

Stephanie, Alex, Thomas and Sarah. Our deeptest sympathies for your loss. We have been traveling together for a few years while our boys have played Football. We always seemed to find Mark in the States at the football shop. If there is anything you need please let us know. Our prayers are with you and your family. Lots of Love The van der Merwe Family

Stephanie, Words can't express how sorry we are are to hear about Mark. He had such a happy and pleasant personality and it was obvious his family was his priority. We will certainly miss his presence on the street, where he spent so much of his time in the driveway or throwing a ball with your boys. Thinking of you and the kids during this very difficult time.

We take life for granted. Running up and down Winding Way. Jumping in and out of the pool, barbeques in our back yards, hockey in the street, being a daily figure that was never ending, endless enthusiasm for life and those who he surrounded himself with. Although our lives are now different and we have gone in different directions the thought of our close time with all of you shall never be forgotten, nor will Marks achievements and his zest for life. May God bless and watch over you all as He welcomes Mark into his kingdom. Far too early,His reason will never be known, but know that Mark's spirit will always be with you and your family. Pay attention to the signs, Mark will show you he is still with you. May you find the peace you need. You are always in our prayers.

Dear Stephanie, Sarah, and family, On behalf of all of the faculty at North London Dance Centre, and all of Sarah's classmates, we pass along our deepest regrets at your terrible loss. We stand by ready to welcome Sarah back with open arms and support whenever she's ready. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help during this difficult time. With love, Kelly & Sam Hajar

Thomas, we're not as close as we used to be but I needed to write this. What happened was so terrible and I know how hard its gonna be from here on out. Please dont ever forget everything he taught you and tell those lessons and stories to your own children. You need to stay strong. One tragedy is enough, losing you as well would be terrible. Depression will come, its a part of greiving - i and many others will be there for you when that comes. Please dont give up things you love like football. He'll always be watching over you, i love you and i will always be here for you no matter what. I'm so sorry for your loss. Be strong. -M

Dear Stephanie, Alex, Thomas and Sarah We were saddened beyond words when we heard about Mark. Your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Memories of what a great neighbour Mark was will always have a special place in our hearts. Take care, Lisa, Sean and Desmond Brohman

Dear Stephanie.... I am so sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your children. I know your strength and courage will help you through this. I am at loss for words my dear...

Dear Stephanie Alex Thomas and Sarah, We were all so sad and stunned to hear your tragic news. Although I didn't get to meet Mark in person I know by the way you spoke of him Stephanie that you loved him very much. We are all thinking of you and sending love strength and positive energy your way. If there is anything we can do to help you or your family in any way Stephanie please let us know. Thinking of you and praying for you every day, Finola MacGinty

Stephanie, Sarah and family, we are so sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. The Russell Family

Our hearts and prayers are with you during this hard time. May he rest in peace. Mark was an honorable man who played a fatherly figure role in all of our boys lives and he will be missed. He had a heart of gold and a smile that filled the room. May he rest in peace...

I had the pleasure of working with Mark (Hawkeye) with the Beavers. I remember him as being so outgoing, friendly and having such a zest for life and the kids. His life touched so many; he will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Mydeepest sympathies to you Stephanie, and your children Alex, Thomas and Sarah. Mark "Sparky Hawkins" will be deeply missed by his work family at Labour Canada. I am grateful to have been his friend and will cherish my memories of him. Please know that my thoughts are with you all during this very painful time.

I am praying (and have others praying as well) for you Stephanie as well as your beautiful children Alex, Thomas and Sarah. I have enjoyed, personally, a lot of chocolate bars over the years that came from your house in all those fund raisers!! I worked with Mark for over 25 years. He was a complex, bright and special man. His devotion as a father was unquestionable and should be modeled by many more dads in this country and this culture!! Please know how much we will miss his uniqueness here at Labour Program. May God bring you His Peace that surpasses all understanding. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ESV)

I have worked with Mark for over 20 years and the thing that most stands out for me was his LOVE for his beloved wife and children. You were everything to him! May the memories of LOVE and good times that you have carry you onward. Mark is on a different journey now but never far from his beloved family. Mark will be missed and you his family, shall be in my prayers. God Bless you all.

Stephanie and Family our thoughts and prayers are with you. We wish we lived closer to be there for you. Mark was a very loving father and husband and he will be watching over you. Know that your family in Ottawa love you and are thinking of you.

Family Hawkins: My heart goes out to your family during this difficult loss. With deepest sympathy.

Mark was one of the 1st to take me under his wing so many years ago when I started working as a student at the Labour Canada, London office. He had a smile, laugh and sense of humour that could lift a room. Stephanie, you and the children meant the world to him and he will continue to watch over you all. He was a good man. Remember the good times, the laughs and the love. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult and trying time.

Mark and I did not work for the same department however we did work in the same building. It was my loss I did not get to know Mark a bit better. In passing and on the elevator rides together Mark and I would always chat about something. Mark was a very pleasant and easy man to talk with and I enjoyed our conversations. Such a shock of his passing. My heart goes out to Mark's wife, children, extended family and friends. Be supportive of each other and always keep Mark in conversation and memory.

I have always admired how much love and devotion Mark had for his family. He loved is children so very much. I know he purposely worked long hours so he could take Wednesday off to be with Sarah when she was born. He would come in on Thursday and tell us everything they did. It was nice when you Stephanie would bring the kids to the office with their fundraisers. It was always a treat. I remember when Mark told me he would never let his boys play hockey because it was way to violent and rough. He then put Thomas into Football, ha. ha. He embrased football and being a coach with everything he had, just like he did for all things in his life. I will miss his dry sense of humour, his crazy BBM messages, his nicknames for people and of course, his huge generosity, caring and giving of himself to others. He was a great friend and colleague and I will miss him greatly.