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Russell E. Hawk, Jr.

Russell E. Hawk Jr., 76, of Kittanning, PA passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Armstrong County Memorial Hospital in Kittanning, PA after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

He was born on Sept. 23, 1948 in Pittsburgh, PA, the son of Marion Kathleen (Wehner) and Rev. Russell E. Hawk, Sr.

Russell was a lifelong resident of Armstrong County, living in the Templeton and Kittanning areas. Russell graduated from Dayton High School and proudly joined the U.S. Navy in 1966. Trained as a Marine Diesel Engineman, he served aboard three different mine sweepers. After his naval service, Russell served as Plant Manager and Safety Manager for Davison Sand & Gravel (which later became Pioneer Mid-Atlantic, Inc.) where he oversaw the construction and operation of a floating sand and gravel dredge on the Allegheny River. Later in his career, Russell served as a Towboat Engineer for Campbell Transportation Company.

Russell was a member of the Grace Brethren Church of West Kittanning where he sang in the choir and led worship music. Russell was an avid fisherman, a pastime that he enjoyed with his sons and grandchildren. He also loved car races, especially dirt racing at Lernerville Speedway.

Russell was a devoted father who volunteered in many of his sons' activities, including serving as Cub Scout Scoutmaster, Boy Scout Assistant Scoutmaster, and coach and Board President of his sons' Little League baseball organization. His devotion to family continued with his grandchildren, who he loved to watch at their sporting events and musicals.

His memory will be cherished by his loving wife of nearly 50 years, Karen S. (Marshall) Hawk, whom he married on May 3, 1975; his sons, Jared Hawk and wife Holly of Sarver, Matthew Hawk of Indiana, and Joshua Hawk and wife Jenna of Indiana; his grandchildren, Caleb, Cadence, Lauren, Liam, Samantha, Trevor, and Lyla; and his half-brother, Wayne Conners and wife Trish of Indiana.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will receive friends from 6-8 PM on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the Bauer Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 515 N. McKean St., Kittanning, PA.

An additional visitation will be held from 10 AM until the time of the funeral at 11 AM on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at the Bauer Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. Larry Edwards officiating.

Interment will be in Lawn Haven Burial Estates, Worthington, PA.


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