James Allison "Jim" Hawkes

It is with heavy hearts—and more than a few smiles through the tears—that we share the passing of James A. Hawkes, who, true to form, quietly and characteristically “got away” at home on May 1, 2026, after a brave and stoic battle with cancer. Jim was 76 years old, though he would likely remind you that age was just a number and attitude was everything. And if you knew Jim, you know he showed up to each day with the firm belief that “it’s a great day to have a great day.”

Born on September 30, 1949, Jim lived a life that was full, fast-paced, and fiercely devoted to the people he loved. Even in his final chapter, Jim remained exactly who he was —thinking of everyone else first, making sure his family was okay, cracking a joke when he could, and carrying himself with quiet strength.

Jim’s work ethic was the stuff of legend. He began his career with Sobeys at the age of 16 as a meat cutter, even though he did manage to lose half of his baby finger making hamburger, it didn’t take long for it to become clear that he was carving out something much bigger than a job. With determination, grit, and a natural ability to lead (and likely charm a room or two along the way), Jim climbed the ranks over the years, ultimately retiring as Head of Sobeys Atlantic Canada. He took immense pride in his work, but never let a title define him—at his core, he was always just “Jim,” happiest when surrounded by good people and good conversation.

While his career was impressive, it was his love for his family that defined him. Jim and his late wife, Linda, built a life together rooted in love, laughter, and resilience. They were blessed with three children—Vicki, Mike, and Nadine (Nick)—who carry forward his spirit in their own ways. Jim’s pride in his children was evident in everything he did, but it was his grandchildren who truly stole the show.

His grandchildren—Myrissa, Jacey, Jamie, Devon, Bradley, and Carson—along with his nine great-grandchildren, were his crowning glory. He delighted in their stories, their accomplishments, and, no doubt, in spoiling them whenever possible. He was their biggest fan, their quiet supporter, and often, their source of a well-timed, witty remark and sage advice.

Life gave Jim another unexpected and beautiful chapter when he found love again with Dona. After the loss of Linda and Dona’s husband Bernie, the two were given a second chance at happiness and were married in 2017. Together, they created a blended family that Jim embraced wholeheartedly. He welcomed Angie (Chad), Ashlea (Ryan), and their children—Brady, Skyla, Scotlyn, Rylea, Valea, Maverick, and Trew—into his life with open arms and a full heart. To them, he was “Puppy” as well, a title he wore with pride and likely a grin.

Sunday dinners became something of a sacred tradition—a time when the house was full, the table was crowded, and the laughter was loud. These gatherings were Jim at his best: surrounded by family, telling stories, checking in on everyone, and making sure no one left without feeling loved (or well-fed).

Jim also came from a large and close-knit family, one of 12 siblings. He is survived by Sandra Patriquin, Judy Rhindress (Charlie), Beverly Hayward (Ross), Barb Hurley (Eric), Allan Hawkes (Joan), and Charlotte Strathearn (Larry). He was predeceased by his parents, Harley and Estella Hawkes, his brothers, Carl and Edwin, and his sisters, Virginia Bolger, Kay Thurston and Donna Dunning. Growing up in a family that size no doubt helped shape Jim’s sense of humour, resilience, and ability to hold his own in any conversation.

To know Jim was to know someone who could light up a room without trying too hard. He had a quick wit, a charismatic presence, and a way of making people feel seen and valued. He didn’t need to be the loudest voice—but when he spoke, people listened (and often laughed). He believed in showing up for people, in doing things the right way, and in finding joy wherever he could.

Jim’s legacy is not just in the career he built or the milestones he reached, but in the family, he loved so deeply and the countless lives he touched along the way. He leaves behind a roadmap for how to live well: work hard, love your people fiercely, keep your sense of humour, and never pass up the chance to remind someone that today—no matter what—is a great day to have a great day. And knowing Jim, he’d probably want us to carry on, take care of each other, and maybe even share a laugh or two in his honour.

All are welcome to attend a celebration of Jim’s life that will take place from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., on Saturday, August 22, in Berwick & District Lions Hall, Wilson Family Community Room, Kings Mutual Century Centre, 250 Veterans Drive, Berwick. Arrangements have been entrusted to Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street, toll free 1-855-825-3448. Online condolences may be made by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com