GARNET MERLE HAWKES

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GARNET MERLE HAWKES
1950 - 2018

Three years ago, on the Ides of March my father passed away. Survived by his children Sheridan, Aeron (Mother Kerry) and Lindsey (Mother Sheila) Aeron's partner Joanne,
Lindsey's fiancé Aleethia. Garnet and my stepmom Sheila were married from 1982 - 2004. He spent the rest of his later years with his loving wife Karen and her children,
Joshua, Stefanie, and Jessica. He is survived by his sister Elaine and brother Jim (Gloria). He also leaves to mourn grandchildren, Tiegan and Liam (Sheridan), Jocosa, Nova (Aeron). Niece and nephew, Karen and Mark (Elaine).
Garnet fell ill in 2013 when it was discovered that he had liver disease. He fought a valiant battle against the disease until 2018. Born in Moncton, New Brunswick, a military kid, Garnet's family lived in Germany (1957-1959), later settling in Winnipeg, 1965. After graduating from Tech-Vocational High school Garnet began his working career in
management. From Atco Trailers, Interprovincial Co-op to forming his own business Hawkes Transport. His son Aeron shared in his business ventures during this time. Garnet's final years were with Central Freight. An avid traveler, Garnet has visited all Canadian provinces and most US states including Hawaii. His travels took him to Mexico, China, Belize, and Newfoundland. As a team player Garnet participated in curling, baseball, card games and enjoyed gathering at the local bars in Winnipeg. People were swept up by his charm, his wit, and drawn to his kind-heartedness. Blessed with many friends, but without question C.B. Thompson and Richard Dalebozik were Garnet's life-time buds.
But more importantly, my father was not a black or white man. He was a complicated man. And if anything, he welcomed all gradients of darkness and light. He was
inclusive, which sometimes meant messy. Our Dad understood the value of taking risks and had little time for falsehoods, but he also knew the importance of stability and
diplomacy. He strived to be fair, but had a wise understanding that the lines of fairness and dignity were always a moving target. He was prideful, but absolutely opposed to
righteousness. He was difficult and yet extraordinarily easy going. We loved him for all that he was and perhaps most for his bravery in his final moments.
"When it comes for your time to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with the fear of death … Sing your death song and die like a hero going home." Live Your Life, Chief Tecumseh
We love you Dad. Never to be forgotten. We know you are here looking out for us. We hear your voice, your words of guidance and miss your way of kibitz.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 13, 2021