Monroe Center

David L. Hawkins, Sr., age 81, died on Sunday, November 4, 2018 at his home. He was born on June 29, 1937 in Diana, West Virginia, the son of James L. and Lillie (Williams) Hawkins. Dave married Phyllis E. Long on August 18,1954 in Rockford, IL. He moved from West Virginia in 1954 and worked as a header Operator at National Lock for 25 years, which later became Metal Crafters. He then worked at Rockford Products retiring in 2001. Over the years, he enjoyed camping with his family, square dancing and blue grass festivals. Dave served on the Monroe Center Fire Department for 22 years. He is preceded in death by his parents; his son, William Hawkins; 3 brothers: Ellis, George, and Lloyd Hawkins; and 6 sisters: Goldie Hardin, Cora Lee Nicholas, Martha Ours, Louise Hawkins Pearl Dennison, and Ivory Wolverton.

Survived by his wife, Phyllis, 2 sons: David "Harvey" Hawkins, Jr. of Rockford, and Alan (Christy) Hawkins of Byron; daughter, Laurie Schoon of Rockford; 7 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren, and his sister, Annabelle (George) Peyatte.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, November 7, 2018 at the Unger Horner Funeral Home, 400 N 6th St., Rochelle with Pastor Lance Mennen officiating. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5 - 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial at the Monroe Center Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Monroe Center Fire Department or Heartland Hospice.