On April 23rd, 2024, Albert Merideth Hawkins, loving husband and father of three, passed away at age 82.
Albert was born on October 20, 1941 to Ethel and Lionel Hawkins in Port Arthur, (Thunder Bay).
He served the telecommunications industry at the international, municipal and provincial levels for 43 years. Albert started his career with Thunder Bay Telephone at age 17, worked as a linesman climbing telephone poles and went on to become one of Thunder Bay Telephone's most accomplished managers.
During his rise in management he studied through correspondence to gain his business degree. Albert also worked in telecommunications overseas in Malaysia for 1.5 years, and enjoyed the culture and cuisine of the many countries he visited.
On August 20, 1960, he married Caroline Whybourne and they raised two daughters Lorraine and Saira and a son, Michael.
Albert enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, camping & fishing, one of his favourite places being Quetico and Shebandowan. He loved to play guitar and sing around the campfire. He was also known for his famous spaghetti sauce which he loved to cook for his friends and family.
He also enjoyed doing renovations and woodworking. Albert loved to travel with Carol to numerous, warm destinations especially Hawaii and subsequently Florida where they lived for 12 years during the winter months. He was known for his ability to lead and served on many boards and committees throughout his professional and personal life.
Albert was preceded in death by his father Lionel and mother Ethel Hawkins and his sister Brenda Turk.
He is survived by his wife Caroline, his daughters Lorraine Strickland (Roger Strickland), Saira VanderWees (Wayne VanderWees) and his son Michael Hawkins, his sisters Trudy Byers, Judy Taylor, Barbara McEwen and brother Jack Everett.
Albert has 11 grandchildren Tiffany, Melissa, Jamie, Jennifer, Josiah, Rebekah, Michaella, Jared, Julian, Katie, Christopher and 11 great grandchildren.
A huge thank you to the caring staff at SouthBridge Pinewood - Blue Heron wing. They cared for him in the most difficult circumstances. They are all angels and we owe them a debt of gratitude.
A small funeral service will be held at St. Paul's United Church on Waverley St. at 11:00 am on Monday, April 29, 2024.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society or the Canadian Cancer Foundation.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
