Obituary of Ernest G. Hawes

Ernest G. Hawes “Ernie” passed away March 10, 2023, peacefully in his sleep next to his beloved wife of 62 years Rebecca. Ernie was born in Columbus, Indiana on September 26, 1937, to James and Wilma Hawes. He is survived by his daughter, Barbara Hill with spouse Scott, and son Steven Hawes, his grandson Joshua Price with his wife Heather and great grandchildren Lucas and Elva, granddaughter Christilynn Osbourne with her husband Justin and great grandchildren Everett, Oliver, and Summer (fiancé Martin Vanderlick), grandson J. Alex Estes with his wife Danelle and great grandchildren Zoe and Zander, as well as many of Ernie’s cousins, nephews and nieces in Indiana. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Laura, his parents, older brother James and younger sister Kathy.

A retired teacher and principal, Ernie was best known for his love to teach; teaching his children to camp, fish and rockhound; teaching his grandchildren how to fish and explore the world with great camping trips; and teaching 100s of people to facet gemstones around the world. He was always the smartest guy in the room and so patient and generous with his time; Ernie had a way of making each person feel valued and important. He continued to be regularly active as the founding member of the New Mexico Faceters guild, walking his dog Buddy and going to his grandkids’ baseball games. He and grandma were “the grandparents” ever present at Lobo Little League.

A celebration of life will be held in the future (Date to be announced). In lieu of flowers, Ernie requested any gifts be made to the NM Animal Humane Society.