Harold E. Hawkins, 96, of Defiance, passed away on Saturday, January 16, 2016 at Brookview Healthcare Center in Defiance.  
  
He was born on March 7, 1919 to Claude and Gladys (Nicklos) Hawkins in Boon, Michigan. On  July 19, 1947 he married Thelma (Fuller) Hawkins, who resides in Defiance.
  
Harold was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Defiance. He is a Veteran of the Army Air Corp, was a Staff Sergeant during WWII,  and received a Purple Heart. He owned, operated, and drove trucks for B & H Trucking for 24 years,  from 1964 to 1988. Harold was a member of the Teamsters,and the Auglaize Country Club. He was a life member of  the VFW, Elks, and Eagles in Cadillac, Michigan. Harold received an award for driving Mack Trucks over one million miles without an accident.
  
Harold is survived by his loving spouse of 68 years, Thelma Hawkins of Defiance, son, Larry Hawkins of Defiance, daughter, Mary "Mic" (Danny) Hawkins-Bauman, 2 Granddaughters, 8 Great-grandchildren, brother, Gerry Hawkins of Cadillac, Michigan, and sister, Marie Wilson of Tamarac, Florida.
  
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Doris Tyler, and a brother, Edward Hawkins.
  
Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at Schaffer Funeral Home, Defiance. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, January 21, 2016 at the funeral home, with Rev. Donald L Luhring officiating. Burial will  follow at Riverside Cemetery where military honors from VFW post 3360 will be accorded.
  
Memorials are suggested to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.