Robert "Bob: Craig Hawkey

Obituary for Robert "Bob" Craig Hawkey

Robert "Bob" Craig Hawkey passed from this life into the presence of his Lord and Savior on April 13, 2026, at the age of 82.  Bob was born to Robert Craig Hawkey, Sr., and Betty Lou Erickson on December 1, 1943, in Olympia, Washington. Bob was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose impact on those around him will never be forgotten. Bob married his wife, Carolyn Ayers, on August 21, 1981, and they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Together, they raised two children, daughter Emily and son Rob.  Bob’s family was his cornerstone, and his devotion to them was apparent in everything he did.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bob Hawkey, Sr, his mother, Betty Lou (Erickson-Hawkey) Burgess, and stepfather, Larry Burgess. He is survived by his daughter Emily Worthey (Josh Williamson), son Rob Hawkey (Sarah Wassell), granddaughter Finn Worthey, brother Larry "Butch" (Diane) Burgess, sister Sandy Withrow(Peter Wyrick), his Aunt Donna Rumsey, and several cousins and nieces.  He held a special place in his heart for his cousin Nancy (Rick) Mayer, with whom he spent a lot of time over the years.

Bob graduated from Olympia High School in 1963.  His service in the Navy from 1963 to 1965 instilled in him a sense of duty and integrity that defined his character.  After being honorably discharged from the Navy, Bob dedicated 42 years to Crown Beverage in Lacey, WA, retiring in 2007.

In addition to his career, Bob was a man of diverse interests.   In his younger years, he was good at shooting pool, so he joined a pool league team and proudly served as captain of the team for several years.  A lifelong car enthusiast, he was actively involved in the local car community, belonging to the Mid-Nite Timers Car Club. Throughout the years he owned several show-quality vehicles, and often said he wished he still owned every one of them. He loved hot rods, car shows, and going to the drag races.

Bob's greatest passion and fondest memories was being involved with Emily and Rob's sports. He attended every game and practice that he could when his work schedule allowed.  Bob helped both his kids with technique and form whether it was T-ball, Little League baseball, girl's fast-pitch baseball, kickboxing, or Thurston County Youth football league.  Emily and Rob had no greater fan than their father as he cheered them on from the sidelines or from the the bleachers!

Bob’s family will fondly remember his talents in the kitchen where he made the best potato salad, pot roasts, and vanilla sheet cakes.  They will also remember how much he loved to watch the Seahawks, and loved every sweatshirt, T-shirt, and Seahawk item he ever received as gifts!

Bob was a dedicated member of the Foursquare denomination, attending Crossroads Church in Rochester, WA for the past 26 years, where he was a council member, led prayer groups, study groups, and found fellowship and support within his church community.

Family and friends will gather to honor Bob's life on May 15, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Funeral Alternatives of Washington - Tumwater Reception Hall, located at 455 North Street SE, Tumwater, WA 98501.

Though he has departed from this world, his legacy of love and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in peace, dear Bob. Your memory will live on in all of us.