Theodore Hawkes

Theodore Richard “Ted” Hawkes, 84, of Weymouth, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025. Born on November 9, 1940, in Boston, Massachusetts, Ted lived a life defined by dedication to family, community, and hard work.

Ted graduated from Bentley with an Associate’s Degree in Accounting. However, his true calling was found in the family business. From a young age, he worked alongside his parents at Park Ave Market. In the late 1960s, he purchased the business from them and, together with his beloved wife Diane (Berio) Hawkes, transformed it into a thriving hardware and convenience store. Their vision and perseverance led to a partnership with Ace Hardware, evolving the store into what is now known as Park Avenue Market – ACE Hardware. This legacy continues through their daughter Nancy, who began working there as a teenager and remains at the helm today.

A devoted husband to Diane until her passing, Ted was also a proud father to four children: Jonathan Hawkes and his wife Alise of Brooklyn, NY; Jeffrey Hawkes and his wife Colette of Australia; Nancy Hawkes of Weymouth; and the late Theodore “Teddy” Hawkes. He was a cherished grandfather to Jayden, Jemma, Julia, and Jordan. Ted also shared a close bond with his brother David Hawkes of California and remembered fondly David’s late wife Janet. His circle of love extended to many nieces and nephews and his beloved friend Carol Melanson.

Ted’s life was rich with friendships and passions. He spent countless hours in his garage working on antique cars and street rods with his best buddy Bruce. He delighted in adventures with his devoted friend Howie and treasured visits to Pam and Bob’s home in Maine. With Carol and her family, he enjoyed memorable trips to Florida, Niagara Falls, Lake George, Maryland, camping at Normandy Farms, and relaxing at her cottage on Widgeon Pond.

His commitment to community was unwavering. Ted was a generous supporter of Weymouth schools and numerous local youth organizations. He actively participated in civic life as a Mason for over 60 years and held memberships in the Weymouth Rotary Club, the Elks, the South Shore Antique Auto Club, and The South Shore Street Rodders. He also served as Treasurer of the Weymouth Republican Town Committee.

Ted found joy in sharing life’s moments with those he loved whether cheering on his children in Demolay and Rainbow events or driving antique cars in local parades with the kids in tow. He cherished time spent with visiting family members and made heartfelt efforts to stay connected across distances—even learning to Skype weekly with his brother David and sons Jonathan and Jeffrey.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to the visitation for Teddy on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at C.C. Shepherd Funeral Home, 134 Pleasant Street (Columbian Sq.) South Weymouth, MA 02190. Friends are invited to Old South Union Church located at 25 Columbian St. Weymouth, MA at 10:45am Thursday Morning for a funeral service that will begin promptly at 11:00 AM.

Ted’s legacy lives on through the family he loved deeply and the community he served so faithfully. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Shriners at www.ShrinersInternational.org.