William B. Hawke

William B. Hawke, 94 of Essex passed away peacefully at Middlesex Hospital on Thursday June 8th surrounded by his wife and daughter. He was born on September 1, 1928 in New London and was raised in Westerly, Rhode Island. Bill graduated from Loomis School and Bryant College and then served in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. He later met his life’s companion, Mellicent (Whitlock) Hawke at B. Altman and Company in New York City and they were happily married for 68 years. He worked for the textile industry while living in Cleveland, Ohio. Bill was transferred to New York City in the 60’s and the family moved to Basking Ridge, New Jersey. He was an active member of the Presbyterian Church there and then became owner of Hawke’s Village Hardware. After selling the store he and Mellicent moved to Essex, Connecticut to enjoy boating. He worked part time for several businesses before retiring. The First Congregational Church became a large part of his life as he served in so many ways: building houses for habitat, mission trips, serving at the soup kitchen, moderator, treasurer and deacon. He installed life-lines for the Middlesex Hospital, was a FISH driver, one time member of the Lions Club, an honorary member of the Essex Fire Department, a member of the Essex Boat Club, a former docent at the Essex Historical Society and a faithful member of the Ancient Order of Essex Weeders. His favorite volunteer activity was reading to a class at the Essex Elementary School each week. Bill loved gardening, bridge, wood working but most especially his family. Bill is survived by his loving wife Mellicent, daughter Tracy (Scott) Perrapato, son Chris (Charmaine) Hawke, grandchildren Kyle, Jenna Perrapato, Ryan (Karla), Casey and great grandchildren Simon, Elliott and Olive Hawke.The family is so grateful for the care that Bill received at Gladeview Rehab, Middlesex Hospice and Home Care and all his wonderful aides.

Visitation will take place on June 25th, 2023 from 4-6 P.M. at the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home 34 Main Street Centerbrook, CT 06409. A celebration of life will take place at the First Congregational Church in Essex on July 14th at 11 a.m. (casual attire). In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Congregational Church of Essex or Shoreline Soup Kitchen and Pantries. To share a memory of Bill please visit the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home website at www.rwwfh.com.