Melvin Michael HAWKRIGG

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Melvin Michael Hawkrigg on Monday, June 24, 2024, at his cherished home "Balgownie" in Waterdown, Ontario, two months shy of his 94th birthday. He leaves behind his beloved wife and life partner of 70 years, Marilyn Jane Field. Cherished and much-loved father of Jane Hawkrigg (Jamie Macrae) of Oakville, Mike Hawkrigg (Rosemary) of Waterdown, Pete Hawkrigg (Joanne) of Burlington, Mary Ann Fleming (Arnold) of Waterloo, and John Hawkrigg (Chris) of Etobicoke. Dearly loved grandpa to Elizabeth (Matt), Courtney, Allie (Mike), James, Sarah (Kevin), Jonathan (Lee), Lindsay (Nick), Jack (Patricia), Annabel, Michael, Katie (Fern) and JJ. Great-grandpa to Hudson, Finley, Charley, Zoey, Max, Freddie, Ben and Sam (deceased), and Wesley. Despite hardships and very humble beginnings, Mel was a remarkable person who left an indelible mark – someone with enormous talent, drive, relentless determination, integrity and generosity. Mel was born in Islington, Ontario, and attended Etobicoke High School, where he met Marilyn. After attending the Grade 9 Sadie Hawkins dance, the two were inseparable from then on. He was a star high school athlete, playing on the football, basketball and track and field teams. Outside school, Junior A hockey, baseball and part-time work kept him busy. Mel went on to McMaster University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Economy. He also earned four university athletic letters for football, basketball, hockey and track and field; was inducted into the McMaster Athletic Hall of Fame in 1984, and was named to the McMaster's Football Team of the Century. He was awarded the Lester Pearson Award by the Canadian Intervarsity Athletic Union in 1999. In 1952 and 1953, he played as a running back for the Hamilton Tigercats. In his business career, Mel started out with Clarkson Gordon as a chartered accountant and became a Fellow of the Institute. His career took him to Fuller Brush (President), Canada Trust (Vice Chairman), Trilon (President/CEO), London Life (Chairman), and finally, to Orlick Industries (Chairman) and the Hamilton Port Authority (Chairman). He also served on a number of boards. During the next phase of his life, Mel served a remarkable three terms as Chancellor of McMaster University with Marilyn by his side. An opportunity to give back to his alma mater that they took great joy from. He was awarded an LLD in 1997; inducted into the Etobicoke Sports Hall of Fame in 2001; and received the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal. In their beloved Waterdown community, both Mel and Marilyn contributed significantly and believed in volunteer service, particularly advocating for and spending time on various youth initiatives for over 50 years. Mel coached Ontario champion teams in both baseball and hockey. He chaired the campaign that brought the YMCA to Waterdown and was the co-founder and president of the Flamborough Colts Junior C hockey club. He served as Chairman of Junior Achievement Canada and Co-Chair of the Canadian Association for Community Living. In 2014, he received the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship for his exceptional long-term contribution to the well-being of his community. Mel lived a big life that touched so many. He triumphed through his many endeavours – athletics, business and community, while maintaining his dedication and unwavering love and support to his family and menagerie of animals. He took great pride in the lives of all of us - we knew we were always first. Although he lived to be in his 90's, Mel was always young at heart and set a fine example for his family and community. He always told us that we needed "PMA" – a positive mental attitude; to work hard and smart as only your very best will do; to give generously to others of your time, money and spirit; to act with integrity in all you do; to be ready to learn new things, no matter your age; and to enjoy life and all it has to offer. He has left an enduring impact and he will be sorely missed A private family service has been held. A Celebration of Life is planned for the Fall. Further details to follow. Condolences may be offered to the family on the tribute wall at kitchingsteepeandludwig.com. To honour his memory, donations can be made to: McMaster University to support Department of Athletics & Recreation, Cardiology Research or Respiratory Research (alumni.mcmaster.ca/melhawkrigg).