When we were first told about Jack's condition at 20 weeks along in my pregnancy, we told our parents the news and spread the blanket of the fearful unknown over my family and loved ones. My Father, having already spent years in Cardiology due to his (unrelated) heart problem, called up his long-time friend and cardiologist, Dr. Don Doty. Dr. Doty told my dad right off the bat that when we went to Primary Children's we were to request Dr. John Hawkins, because "he was the best." Dr. Doty had actually trained under Dr. Norwood- of the "Norwood Procedure," so his recommendations were taken seriously. We were privileged to meet Dr. Hawkins and have him perform the first (and the most important) surgery on Jack. The first stage of the Norwood is high risk, and only 70% survive. Dr. Hawkins was there when Jack was 5lbs 14oz, with his incredible hands, fixing Jack's broken heart. We will ALWAYS have a special place in our heart for him, and will be forever grateful.
John Alan Hawkins, MD 1955 ~ 2011 John Alan Hawkins MD, 55, beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend passed away on May 15, 2011 in his home surrounded by his loved ones. He fought a courageous 25 month battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born June 29, 1955 in Wichita, Kansas to Lois Price and John Powell Hawkins. John married Mary Jennifer Coleman, his soul mate and perfect companion on June 29, 1982 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He and Jenny were blessed with four wonderful children, Sarah Jane, Anne Elizabeth, John Sherman, and Mary Jessica. John graduated from the University of Kansas in 1977 Phi Beta Kappa with a degree in biochemistry. He earned his MD from the University of Kansas in 1980 where he was elected into Alpha Omega Alpha. He completed his general surgery residency at the University of Utah in 1986 and cardiothoracic trainings in 1989. He also finished a fellowship at Cincinnati Children's Hospital in pediatric cardiovascular surgery. John was on staff at Primary Children's Medical Center from 1991 until his diagnosis in April 2009. During his time at PCMC he served as the Chief of the Division of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery from 1999 until 2009 and Chief of Cardiothoracic surgery at the University of Utah Medical Center from 2001 until 2009. Throughout his practice John saved the lives of countless children, served on numerous editorial boards, and held offices in multiple national organizations. John was a gifted, compassionate surgeon, a devoted husband and father, and a talented craftsman, luthier, and musician. He was a man of great humility and unwavering integrity, who was an example to us all. He will be deeply missed. John is survived by his loving wife Jenny, of nearly 29 years, and their four children, Sarah Jane (Brian Michaelson), Anne Elizabeth, John Sherman, and Mary Jessica. He is also survived by his mother Lois Price of Wichita, Kansas, brother David (Judy) of Wichita, Kansas, sister Laura of Leawood, Kansas, Mother in-law Jane Coleman, brothers in-law Dr. Michael Coleman (Anne) and Dr. Don Coleman (Margie), numerous nieces and nephews, and countless friends. John was preceded in death by his father John Powell Hawkins and father in-law Dr. Sherman Coleman. Deepest gratitude to all the doctors, nurses, and staff at Huntsman Cancer Institute and Rocky Mountain Hospice for their exceptional and compassionate care during this difficult time. At John's request a private family memorial was held. In lieu of flowers John and his family have requested contributions to: The Heart Center at Primary Children's Medical Center (100 North Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84113), Huntsman Cancer Institute (500 Huntsman Way, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108), Camp Hawkins (1469 Wilton Way, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108 or camphawkins.org ), Coaches vs. Cancer Believe Campaign (4421 S. Williamson Lane, Spokane, Washington, 99223), or a charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.starksfuneral.com
Published in Deseret News on May 22, 2011
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