Jack L. Hawk

Jack L. Hawk, AIA, went home to be with the Lord on August 10, 2023 after a short illness. 

Jack embraced life with great commitment, passion, love for family, church and community. Always friendly, positive, and selfless, he inspired many. Born on December 31, 1945 to Alvin and Minnie Hawk in Akron, Ohio. After graduation from Hower Vocational High School, attended Kent State University and received his BA of Architecture. 

After graduating with a degree in Architecture, he formed a partnership with Bob Wilson, establishing The Wilson Architectural Group. Jack was also the sole practitioner of Abbiente Studio of Design. His career as an architect consisted of design and construction from historic downtown vitalization projects; long term elderly care, health care, manufacturing, offices, religious, restaurants, retail and sports facilities, apartment/housing complexes, private residences and much more.

His first and last business dealings were with his uncle and close mentor Gene Calabrese whom he greatly admired.  

Jack was a silent giant in the communities he served. His devotion to both the local and state communities were unparalleled. He chaired and served on many boards and committees – AIA Akron and Ohio Chapters, Canton Board of Building Appeals, Canton Museum of Art, Canton Preservation Society, Children’s Network of Stark County, Downtown Canton Architectural Review Board, Columbus Colony Housing, Ohio Association of the Deaf, Ohio School for the Deaf Alumni Association and many more. Receiving numerous accolades and awards through the years. 

He was a longtime former Adjunct Professor for Kent State University for the College of Architecture. 

Jack founded TRIAD Deaf Services, Inc. (Canton, Ohio) and served as their director from 2012 – 2023. Being raised by deaf parents, he was driven to continue their legacy of advocating for the deaf community on a local and state level.

Jack is survived by his beloved daughter Ruby Hawk; siblings Jim Hawk, Steve (Susie) Hawk and Mella Castner; nephews and nieces Cory DeVenture, Chris Hawk, Aaron Hawk, Alana Hawk, Jessico Bowman and Laney Plott; great nieces and nephews Eva, Enzo and Kayden; along with uncles and cousins; close friends John Dean, Bob Wilson, Barb Goddard and many other friends. Jack also leaves behind his cherished significant other of 20 years Rita Hovinga and her family who embraced him as part of their own. 

Calling hours will be held at Arnold Funeral Home,1517 Market Ave N, Canton, OH 44714 on Friday, September 8 from 4pm–7pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, September 9 at 10am at St. Francis of Assisi Parish at St. Anthony Church, 1530 11th St. SE, Canton, OH 44707 with Father Kevin Peters celebrant.  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to honor his life be made to St. Francis of Assisi Parrish, 1530 11th St. SE, Canton, OH 44707 and Triad Deaf Services, 408 9th St SW Ste 2100, Canton, OH 44707.

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