Joseph Charles Hawlik Jr.

 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Charles Hawlik Jr. on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by his loved ones at home.

Joseph Hawlik Jr. was born in Detroit, Michigan, on February 19, 1934. He was the first child of the late Cleola Templeton and the late Joseph Hawlik Sr. He was the beloved husband of the late Bonnie Hawlik for over 44 years. He is survived by his children Cameron (Mandy), Christopher (Ashley), Jami, Scott, David, and Joey. He was the cherished Papa and grandfather to Kieran, London, Noah, Logan, and Nicole. He was also the brother of the late Sidney Hawlik.

Joseph earned his engineering degree from the University of Cincinnati as part of one of the first co-op programs in the United States. He was fiercely entrepreneurial, and that spirit fueled his approach to life and business. After completing his studies, he worked at the McDonnell Douglas Corporation, applying his engineering expertise in the aerospace field, producing aircraft for the United States military.

After accepting an opportunity with Fisher Controls that brought him to Toronto, he met the love of his life, Bonnie. They moved to London in 1980, where he opened Lakeside Controls, specializing in selling Fisher Control valves and beginning his journey of supporting the London business community. After selling the business, he joined the London Economic Development Corporation at City Hall, leading efforts to attract manufacturing and technology jobs from car companies and tech firms. He later joined the Research Park at the University of Western Ontario, supporting new businesses by connecting them to a network of professionals and academics in London.

Joseph was a lifelong supporter of team sports and academics. He established two awards at the University of Western Ontario to support student-athletes: the Darwin M. Semotiuk OSOTF Award and the J.C. Hawlik Award.

At home with his beloved Bonnie, he loved hosting social gatherings, sharing stories of his brushes with celebrities, offering tutorials on making Spanish coffees, and enjoying one of his famous martinis. He was a passionate clay sportsman and frequently travelled across Ontario and the United States to skeet shooting events. He was one of the longest-serving Trap Committee Chairpersons at the London Hunt and Country Club, with his name adorning many trophies over the years.

Our family is deeply grateful to his team of physicians at the University Hospital Stroke Rehab Unit and to all the healthcare providers and nurses involved in his care.

In accordance with Joseph’s wishes, a private celebration of life will be held at a later date. In honour of Joe, please cheer loudly and proudly for the Toronto Blue Jays, Western Mustangs, and Cincinnati Bearcats.