Donald Lee Hawkins

Our beloved nascar fan has finished his race to heaven after battling cancer for the last year. Don was diagnosed in April of 2025, and fought hard to the very end. To know strength was to know Don. Born in Alabama, and raised by mother Alta Mae Bryant and father JC Bryant, alongside sister Helen McAnally, he lived a wonderful childhood. Making precious lifelong memories. Like dancing with his niece Pat to So Rare by Jimmy Dorsey. He loved his Alabama roots and the family he grew up with there. Into his young adulthood Donald left the civilian life to become a US Navy Sailor aboard the USS Boxer where he traveled around the world and learned many things. When he requested to be moved to an area east of the Mississippi, he was transferred to Moffett Field in Mt. View, California, where his life would really begin after meeting the love of his life, Jeannie Landgraf. After just a few months the couple were wed and moved back to Don's hometown, Huntsville, Alabama. Soon after came their precious baby boy, Donnie. With the work life balance taking its toll, Jeannie decided to move with Donnie back to Mountain View, California and after "the divorce not working out" as Don would say, they were married a second time. They then welcomed their second son Ronnie with eyes as blue as his, and their beautiful baby girl, Jodi.
Don worked 37 years at Palo Alto Unified School District as a grounds person and bus mechanic/driver. All those blessed to know him were always greeted with his warm smile and looked forward to his presence. When the nine to five ended he dedicated his time and love to his three children and wife at home. Being a fan of NASCAR and motorcross he would take his children to do races and work at the tracks. No matter how early or tired, he was ready with lunches packed and breakfast made. Don was truly the epitome of a Father. Ready to always teach his kids his knowledge, to support them in their dreams and do it all with patience and grace. His love only grew stronger as his first grandchild CJ would be born to daughter Jodi. The bond between the two was indescribable and remained strong for a lifetime. Having Don as a father figure would make CJ become a remarkable man just like Don. Just as he did for his own children, Donald showed up for all the moments with CJ that you only get once and became CJs guide to life. So it was only natural when Donald and Jeannie's three children began to move from Santa Clara, they would soon follow. Escalon, CA would be where Donald would retire and live out his days with his wife by his side. Sitting out front in their favorite lawn chairs they would share stories and watch their now six grandchildren, CJ, Ari, Robert, Nate, Evin and Eryn play, talk and eventually grow into adults. And soon after it would all restart with the welcoming of great-grandchildren Malina, Elias, Liam Donald & Emory. Donald attended every school assembly, every luncheon, every basketball game, soccer game and dance recital. He loved to visit his Alabama family yearly with his wife, and made it a point, up until recently. To be loved by Don was immeasurable. Donald was a family man but also he was so much more than that. He had a passion for woodworking and was amazing at it. He would make the most innovative projects out of scraps. But more so he enjoyed helping others in whatever way he could. Whether it be auto related, painting cabinets, building furniture, laying down cement... He was as he would say a "jack of all trades" . His garage was his space and everyone knew if you had a question he would have your answer. And if not a question then he was ready for that sit down and a beer while enjoying the sunlight and his favorite people. He was the one who always waved at you and knew all the neighbors. The most friendly, outgoing charming man. He had so many best friends and had such an impact, in some form on everyone he knew. His humor could truly light up the darkest of days. His dance moves were one of a kind and he loved to show them off. And his southern accent would melt your heart.
Donald will forever be missed, loved and remembered. He didn't live for just his happiness but for the happiness of others. His heart is nothing like you've known before and if you needed an ear, a hug or a tutorial he was the guy. His beautiful blue eyes and warm smile captivated the hearts of all.
Don's legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.
Donald is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jeannie Hawkins, children, Donnie & Lisa, Ronnie & Judy, Jodi. Grandchildren, CJ, Ari, Robert, Nate, Evin & Eryn. Great Grandchildren, Malina, Elias, Liam Donald & Emory, his beloved fur Grandbaby Lucy, as well as many friends and family who will miss him dearly.