Ronald “Hawk” Hawkins
Ronald Warren Hawkins, 83, passed away unexpectedly on January 24, 2026, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Born on April 13, 1942, in the Central Valley of California, Ron lived a life defined by professional integrity, an infectious sense of humor, and an unwavering devotion to his family.
Ron graduated with an Honors Engineering Degree from UC Berkeley and immediately joined Alcoa as a salesman. He went on to have a distinguished career with Alcoa, eventually acting as President of a number of subsidiaries specializing respectively in recycling, packaging and extrusions in various locations around the country but always returning to his adopted home town of Pittsburgh. He retired from Alcoa and immediately transitioned into a successful second chapter leading and advising smaller manufacturing and service companies. While his professional contributions were significant, he always maintained that his greatest legacy was the family he built and the joy they shared.
A devoted husband, father and grandfather, Ron is survived by his wife Joyce, children, Alicia (Louis Mafrice) and Warren (Phoebe), and his cherished grandchildren: Carson, Violet, and Wyatt. He was a constant presence in their lives. As a Dad, he could be found coaching baseball and softball, participating in Indian Guides and Indian Princesses, and inventing elaborate games to make every new house feel like home. As a grandfather, he was known as Mop due to a happy twist of fate, and loved planning elaborate crafts and activities to do with his grandchildren. From 'Math Camp' and tie-dyeing sessions to the thrill of backyard rocket launches, Mop turned learning into a celebration. His boundless energy was matched only by his kindness.
An avid fan of the game, Ron’s love for baseball was eclipsed only by his love of a good story. He had a magnetic gift for laughter—often directed at himself—and a warmth that made him a friend to almost everyone he met. In his later years, he traded his golf clubs and jogging shoes for quieter moments, but his spirit remained as vibrant as ever.
Most recently, Ron’s life was a testament to his character as he dedicated himself fully to caring for the love of his life, Joycie. His tender, steadfast care for her was the ultimate reflection of his values: integrity, hard work, and a heart centered entirely on family.
His sudden passing leaves a profound void, yet the lessons he taught—to live with purpose, to treat others with respect, and to find the humor in the everyday—will guide his loved ones for generations.
Goodbye, Hawk. We love you, we miss you, and we are forever grateful for the life you shared with us.
The family plans to host a Celebration of Life honoring Ron this summer. In recognition of Ron's care and devotion to family, donations in his memory may be made to The Alzheimer's Association Greater Pennsylvania Chapter (https://www.alz.org/pa).
Arrangements are entrusted to Freyvogel- Slater Funeral Directors, 112 Fort Couch Road, Bethel Park, 15241, 412-835-1860.
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