William Alden Hawk

1941 - 2009

Longtime Bakersfield resident William (Bill) Alden Hawk died February 20, 2009, after battling cancer for the past several years. Bill was born December 8, 1941 in San Diego, California. His family settled in Bakersfield in the 1950's. Like his father before him, Bill attended the New Mexico Military Institute, graduating in 1961. In 1963, Bill graduated from the University of Denver with a degree in Business Administration. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1969, after serving two tours in Vietnam and obtaining rank of First Lieutenant. In 1964, Bill married Diantha (Dee) Scott, and in 1971 their daughter, Erin, was born. They later divorced. In 1974, Bill married Lynne Powell. Both worked in the oil industry from 1974 through the early '90's. During these years Bill enjoyed every aspect of pro drag racing, funny cars and top fuel. He helped build a car piloted by Kern local Doug Kerhoulas, and he was also associated with the Don Pernow team. After retiring from petroleum reserve engineering, Bill played some serious golf. The golfing community will always remember him for his love of golf and his ability to instruct and mentor young golfers. His grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Hawk Sr. and Mr. and Mrs. Wright Gainsley, his parents, Bill and Aldean Hawk, and his wife, Lynne, of 31 years, who died in 2005, precede Bill in death. Bill is survived by former wife Dee Mooneyham and their daughter Erin and son-in-law Tom Byrum, sister Terri Gibson and her family, step-children Debra Hawk and Brian Zeholla, granddaughters Sarah and Brittany, the 'Brother's Powell' and their families, as well as many friends who miss him dearly. Bill's family is forever grateful to the many family members and friends who offered their kind support during these last difficult months. A special thanks to Leslie Evans, his nurse advocate, who was always there for him, his good friend Jerry Dyer without whom we could not have made it through this sad process, and his amazing golf student, Alyssa Hawkins, and her family. Bill's wishes were that he be cremated and his ashes spread at sea. No services, no flowers, just happy thoughts and perhaps a round of golf in his memory for those that enjoy the green. For those who would like to give in Bill's memory, his family asks that you consider a donation to the West Los Angeles Fisher House. A donation to the Fisher House honors those who have served, and helps their families who support their loved ones during hospitalization. Bill's family was kindly taken in and provided with free accommodation at the Fisher House during their time with Bill at the Veteran's Affairs Hospital. Donations can be sent to Fisher House, 11301 Wilshire Blvd. (10AF), Los Angeles, CA 90073, Attn.: Sharon Hudson. William (Bill) Alden Hawk 1941 - 2009