Benjamin Hawk

Benjamin "Donkey" Hawk, 42, passed away on July 11, 2025, in Buckeye Lake, Ohio. Born on September 8, 1982, in Santa Rosa, California, Ben lived a life marked by generosity, humor, and an unwavering love for his family and friends.

Ben graduated from Rancho Cordova High School and went on to attend American River College, where he earned a certification in diesel technology. His dedication and skill quickly propelled him forward in his career-he was promoted to a salaried position at Penske Truck Leasing, where he made a lasting impression with his work ethic and character.

Known affectionately as "Donkey," Ben was larger than life. He had a unique ability to turn strangers into friends with his open heart and infectious spirit. Music, gaming, and singing brought him joy-but nothing compared to the happiness he found in being a father. His children-Alexis Quinn, Devon Hawk, and Max Hawk-were the light of his life. He poured boundless love into their lives and took immense pride in being their dad.

Ben will be deeply missed by his wife Jennifer Meister; his daughter, Alexis Quinn and Devon Hawk; son Max Hawk; his brother David Hawk; and niece Mia Hawk. He also leaves behind beloved aunts Terrilyn Little, Tami Schwass, Jenny Hawk, and Sharon Peterson; uncles Rayburn Little, Dennis Hawk, Ole Peterson, and Jerry Schwass.

He now joins those who passed before him: his mother Karen Ann Hawk; son Giovanni Lee Hawk; grandparents Francis Gori and Albert Gori; grandparents Audrey Hawk and Dwayne Hawk; and aunt Cheri Hawk.

Ben's legacy is one of kindness. He believed that no matter what burdens someone carried or where they came from, there was always room to help another person-to lift them up with compassion or simply share a smile. His presence brought warmth to every room he entered. Those who knew him were truly blessed.

As we remember Ben's life and the joy he brought into ours, may we honor him by carrying forward his spirit of generosity. Help someone out. Be kind to a stranger. Share laughter when you can. That's what Ben would have wanted.

His memory will live on through all of us who loved him-and through every act of kindness done in his name. A Celebration of Life will be held on August 22, 2025, from 01:00 PM to 03:30 PM at Riverside Park 99 West High St. Please come join us for a Celebration of Life on August 22nd at Riverside park. Feel free to bring side dishes, chips, and drinks. We will be having a bbq as well. There will be a balloon during this celebration. Please bring a written note, or memory with you. These notes will not be read, and will be burned. These will be spread off of the coast of Northren California in March of next year.