Ronald Hawley Sr.,81, of Butler, died on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024.
Graveside services was held on Sunday, Jan. 7, at Wares Grove Cemetery in Butler with the Rev. Mike Plummer officiating. Hough and Sons Funeral Home in Hillsboro is charge of arrangements.
Mr. Hawley was born Dec. 27, 1942 in Kalamazoo, MI; the oldest son out of the kids born to Truman and Harriet (Colquist) Hawley. At a young age, Mr. Hawley was drafted to the Vietnam War, but he decided to enlist in the US Navy (US Independent Air Craft Carrier) in 1963 until 1967. While in the Navy, he was an aviation metalsmith; his job was to make the planes in top shape and to ensure that the planes would be able to take off safely.
While serving his country Mr. Hawley met and married the love of his life, Irene Hurd. He met his good friend Steve Borgic while in the Navy, which led him to move to Witt, where his best friend was from. Mr. Hawley worked for Eagle Picher in Hillsboro and also worked for a private auto body company. He later worked at Coffeen Coal Company, and after it closed he bought Ron’s Tavern in Butler, which he owned and operated for over a decade. He then went to work for FS in Butler, before retiring in 2002.
Mr. Hawley’s passion was for his cars, ensuring they were clean and always had a shine. He also enjoyed keeping his yard looking nice and he liked going to the casino and working out.
He is survived by his two sons Ronald (Beverly) Hawley Jr., of South Elgin and Robert “Robbie” (Debbie) Hawley, of Brighton.
Mr. Hawley was preceded in death by his parents; wife Irene in 2023; and one sister Susan (Hawley) McCauley and one brother David Hawley.
Memorials can be directed to Alzheimer’s Association. Condolences can be left at www.houghfuneralhome.com
