MSC (AW) David Clayton Hawks

MSC (AW) David Clayton Hawks, 60, of Pensacola passed away on June 14th, 2014. He was Born and raised in Ashland, Ohio. He is survived by his loving wife Julie Hawks, and three children Dewey and wife Carrie, Daniel and wife Crystal, and Jennifer Hawks; four Grandchildren Ian, Angel, Donovan, and Dalton Hawks. He is also survived by his Father Clayton Hawks and Sister Sally Hawks Little of St. Petersburg, FL and Grandmother Katheryn Hawks of Ashland, Ohio. He is preceded in death by his Mother Shirley Hawks

He Joined the Navy in 1973 following High School and retired after 21 years of service. During his service he was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal with Gold Star, 5 Good Conduct Medals, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with 3 Bronze Stars, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, Navy “E” Ribbon 2 awards, Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon with 3 Bronze Stars, Twelfth Gold Wreath for Excellence in Recruiting, Humanitarian Service Medal with Bronze Star, and Meritorious Unit Commendation with Bronze Star he also earned his Aviation warfare specialist badge. His first duty station was in Japan where he met his wife Julie. During his tour in San Diego, CA we had the honor of being one of the six men who cooked for Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip. During his tour in Tampa he was part of the Navy Recruiting Command and was awarded his twelve Gold Wreaths of Excellence in Recruiting. When stationed in Keflavik, Iceland he earned his rank of Chief Petty Officer. He also made many cakes for several military functions and ceremonies. In Iceland is also where Dave and Julie renewed their wedding vows. Pensacola is where he retired after his 21 years of service. After his career in the Navy he went back to school and became a Certified Executive Pastry Chef and was also certified in c++ in computers. He also instructed at a Federal Prison and taught inmates the Culinary Arts.

He was a loving and caring Husband, Father, and Grandfather. He enjoyed fishing and designed a elaborate koi fishpond in his backyard for all to enjoy. Every Spring he would raise Koi from his Pond. His was a fanatic about his Florida teams and enjoyed watching the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Rays. His favorite Holiday was Christmas and would play Santa Clause for all the Grandchildren. Putting a few lights up around the house was not good enough. He worked hard to make elaborate decorations inside and out every year it continued to grow. Every year he would make dozens of cookies to give out to friends and family. This tradition started in Iceland where he would give these cookies to unaccompanied service men and women. One year Lee Greenwood visited Keflavik and he delivered a special tray for him. This tradition is carried on by his daughter Jennifer Hawks.

His last few years he became very ill and was under special care from his loving family at home. His wife Julie and daughter Jennifer gave special 24 hour home care for him.

He will be greatly missed by all and will live in our hearts forever. Thank you to all the doctors, paramedics, nurses, and everyone who helped with his care.