LCol Gregory Joseph Hawes (Ret’d) of Dundurn, SK passed away suddenly on 9 March 2022. Mourning his loss and cherishing his memory are his son, Noah, and his siblings Denise, Nancy (Stan), Harvey, Darlene (Brian), Terry (Derek) and Bernie. Greg was predeceased by his parents Ormond and Nadia; sister Laurie; and brothers-in-law Allan and Kevin. He is also survived by Noah’s mother, Charlotte, many cousins, nieces, nephews and close friends.

Greg was born in Kindersley, SK and was the youngest of eight siblings – one older brother and six sister. His childhood years were spent in rural Saskatchewan up until 1970, when the family moved to Saskatoon. Greg attended and graduated high school at Evan Hardy Collegiate. In 1995, he moved to Dundurn, and it was here where he settled and help raise his only son Noah. He loved living in a rural community and enjoyed any and all outdoor activities. He gave generously of his time to the Dundurn community through his involvement in the Lion’s Club and Noah’s hockey teams. He loved to watch Noah play and did so with pride.

Greg served in the Canadian Armed Forces for 30 years. He joined 737 (Saskatoon) Communication Troop as a young private in 1978 and worked his way up to being the Squadron Sergeant Major. He was very passionate in all his positions and eventually took his commission. At his time of release in 2008, he was acting Group Commander for all Western Signals. Greg saw the potential in everyone, and he used to build strength in others. In turn this made him an outstanding leader. Greg was honourably released in 2008 and served with distinction as Lieutenant Colonel.

Greg worked for Calian, Advanced Technologies as a Project Manager in the Aerospace and Defence business unit for most of his working career. He was very well liked and respected by his co-workers and customers.

Greg was a very private person and did not want to burden anyone with his own medical issues. He was dedicated, committed, loyal and sincere and gave of his time freely, but was always a private one when it came to personal life. He has a quiet demeanor but was also one never to shy away from a good joke, that smirk he wore, and his dry sense of humour was what made him stand out above the rest.

Greg was a dedicated and loyal son, the ‘fun’ uncle with the nieces and nephews and a loving father to Noah. He had a great network of friends that supported him right through his very last days, and we can’t thank them enough for their love and support of him.

Noah was his pride and joy and his greatest accomplishment. Greg has left us way too soon, and way too young, he will be deeply missed.

For those wishing to donate in honour of Greg, contributions can made to:

Soldier On, http://weblink.donorperfect.com/LColHawes