Michael Hawthorne

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Michael E. Hawthorne, 78, lost his off-and-on ten-year battle with cancer at his home on November 21, 2020, with his teenage sweetheart and adoring wife of 57 years, Kathleen “Kathy” Hawthorne at his side.

Mike lived and loved his life in Belleville, IL. He was a former letter carrier with the US Postal Service before beginning a 30-year career with the Belleville Fire Department, where he retired as Fire Chief in 1999. As early empty-nesters, Mike and Kathy were avid road-trippers like his parents before him. They traveled all 50 states, experienced many territories, and had an occasional international adventure.

He made many lifelong friends from his wide swath of life including bowling, ping pong, multiple softball leagues, radio control airplanes, model trains and cars. He was an original St. Louis Blues season ticket holder and was elated to see the 2019 Stanley Cup victory. He had a voracious appetite for history and trivia, and all kinds of music from Bill Haley to Iron Butterfly to Sons of The Pioneers. He rode motorcycles, played cards, told jokes, and swore brilliantly. He made annual fishing trips with his buddies. He colorfully coached his sons Khoury League baseball team and cheered at every football, basketball, hockey, track meet, horse show, and soccer game he could attend. He always carried a second job that added further flavor and friendship including surveying, Harter’s Hobby Shop, a contractor’s assistant with Marvin “Beanie” Meddows, Ideal Office Supply, and Dave Schmidt Truck Service. He remained active with the Belleville Exchange Club and Belleville R/C Flyers.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Regina Hawthorne; and two brothers, John “Jack” Hawthorne Jr. (Phyllis), and Ronald Hawthorne (Nancy).

He is survived by his wife, Kathy Hawthorne,
his sons, James “Jim” Hawthorne (Joni), and Robert “Bob” Hawthorne (Tiffany Whitlock);
and his grandchildren, Allison “Allie” Arehart (Jake), Jacob Hawthorne,
Danielle Hawthorne, and Polly Hawthorne.

Mike was not much on formality and given the current state of affairs, he would appreciate a kind thought, a simple joke or story told to friends, or watch an episode of The Three Stooges, Marx Brothers, or W.C. Fields movie in his honor.

Memorials in his name may be made to the Belleville Exchange Club. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Funeral:  The family is considering a memorial event in the future.

As Mike would say, “take five and smoke ‘em if you got ‘em!”

 

Condolences:

12 Comments on Michael Hawthorne

Marvin “Beanie” Meddows said : Guest Report Nov 30, 2020 at 5:16 PM

Kathy, I am so,so, sorry to hear about the passing of Mike. I am so blessed to have been able to rub shoulders with him. Mike was a man among men! The two of you made such an awesome team! God bless you, James, Robert and their families. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Yours truly with love, Beanie.

  • Athens
  • Tennessee
Julie Baker said : Guest Report Nov 30, 2020 at 12:27 PM

Mrs. Hawthorne, I am so so sorry to learn of Mike's passing. I knew him through the fire department and always called him Chief Michael, even after he retired. He was so kind and funny. He knew how to light up a room Prayers to your family.

  • Belleville
  • IL
Rick and Pam Kusmer said : Guest Report Nov 28, 2020 at 9:36 PM

Kathy and Family: we were so very sorry to hear of Mike's passing. Please accept our sincere condolences from your neighbors on Springdale. Rick and Pam

  • Belleville
  • IL
Jackie Full said : Guest Report Nov 25, 2020 at 8:04 PM

Kathy, I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

  • Shiloh
  • IL
Becky Kern-Taylor said : Guest Report Nov 25, 2020 at 3:41 PM

So sorry Kathy, Jim And Bob. He always was a fighter and he sure gave it his best. I bet he's smoking in heaven. Bek

  • Belleville
  • I'll.
Dan Bauer said : Guest Report Nov 25, 2020 at 11:54 AM

I am so sorry for your loss. We worked many shifts together. You guys are in my thoughts.

  • Freeburg
  • Il
Maxine Karcher Ferris said : Guest Report Nov 24, 2020 at 4:13 PM

Kathy, God called Mike and he is now on his way to eternal life with all the Saints and Angels. May he rest in peace and rise in glory. Mike leaves you with precious memories.

  • Collinsville
  • Illinois
Darwin Evelsizer said : Guest Report Nov 24, 2020 at 3:49 PM

I have know Mike as a fellow club member and flyer with the Belleville R/C Flyers for over 40 years. He will be sorely missed at the flying field and at club meetings. I pray that Mike may forever rest in peace with the Heavenly Father and that He may guard, guide and protect Mike's family and friends left to mourn his passing.

  • Maryville
  • IL
Judy Saeger said : Guest Report Nov 23, 2020 at 3:33 PM

I'm very sorry Kathy, Jim and Joni whom I knew best,. Blessings to all of you for comfort and fond memories.

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
Joyce Thomas said : Guest Report Nov 23, 2020 at 2:25 PM

So sorry to learn of Mike's passing. My prayers, thoughts, and condolences to you Kathy and your family at this difficult time.

  • Belleville
  • IL
Pat Cook said : Guest Report Nov 23, 2020 at 10:17 AM

Sorry to hear of Mike's passing. My thoughts and condolences to you Kathy and your family

  • FREEBURG
  • IL
Jackie Lauf said : Guest Report Nov 23, 2020 at 6:49 AM

Kathy and family, So sorry to learn of Mike’s passing. May perpetual light shine upon him. May God send comfort at this difficult time through friends and family and cherished memories . God bless.

  • Belleville
  • IL

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