Kenneth S. Hawkes

Kenneth S. HAWKES July 26, 1910 ~ March 2, 2011 Born July 26, 1910 in Ballard, as the only son of mariner Thomas Henry Hawkes and his wifeKate, Ken lived life to the fullest; an outdoorsman, a successful businessman, friend to many and beloved patriarch of his family. Ken's working life started at an early age working as a milk delivery boy on Hanson's horse drawn milk cart, selling newspapers off the street car, working as a summer golf caddy and a delivery boy for Turrell's Shoe Store. He graduated from Ballard High School in 1928 with shorthand and bookkeeping skills, and got a job at Northwestern Mutual Insurance as an office boy. He moved into claims, became an adjuster and was in charge of the claims department for Washington at age 28. He moved up the ladder in responsibility and importance to the company. In the 50s, he was promoted to VP of National Claims, and in the 60s he was promoted to Executive Vice President of the company, now called Uniguard Insurance. He was elected to the board in 1970, and retired in 1974. Ken was known as a very hard driving, efficient and hard working person. He tried to hire the best and he expected the best. As a young man, Ken played horseshoes and handball with the firemen at the Ballard Firehouse, and in 1929 the Captain introduced him to his daughter, Winifred Wright. Ken dated and married only one woman in his life, his proudest accomplishment was to be married to Winifred Hawkes for 73 magnificent years. Winnie became Ken's beloved bride on July 14th 1934; they made Seattle their home and began raising their two children, Larry and Judy. In 1947, the Hawkes family moved to the Eastside near the home of Winnie's parents and created a 10-acre ranch and beautiful country home. Ken and his son, Larry, worked on improving the Bridlewood home for two years before the whole family moved east. Once moved in, they cleared land for pasture and built a new barn for horses, put in a pool and outdoor kitchen. This home, horseback riding, swimming in the pool, and the wonderful welcome and warmth shared by Ken and Winnie were an endless joy for generations of family and friends. Ken was an outdoorsman and enjoyed boating, horses, fishing, golf, swimming and all types of adventures. He was skipper of The Thomas Henry for over 40 years and his family and friends have treasured memories of many voyages. During retirement Ken and Winnie enjoyed winters in Maui. Ken enjoyed golf year round - consistently scoring in the low 80s at Kapalua and other challenging courses. Ken was a man that never looked back or worried over the past. He met change with solutions, not complaints, and prided himself on decision-making and action. He enjoyed challenges and was very enthused about LIFE.He was a consummate do it yourself man, an enthusiastic boater, poet, storyteller, voracious reader, prankster and great host. Embodying the gentlemen's code, he imparted his integrity, ambition and hope for the future in everyone he met. All were encouraged to reach farther, dream bigger and to always hope for the best. Ken was an immense positive force in the lives of his family and friends. His grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family members and friends will continue to live with the countless memories of a wonderful life and adventures he shared. Ken passed peacefully into heaven March 2nd surrounded by his grandchildren and son-in-law. His wife Winnie, his children Judy and Larry, and his sisters Lucille, Geraldine and Clarice preceded Ken in death. Private family services will be held at the farm in Bridlewood. The family extends grateful thanks and suggests memorials to Children's Hospital in Seattle, WA. Sign Ken's on-line Guest Book at www.Legacy.com.