William Francis Hawk's Obituary
William F. Hawk,
Veteran, Retired CEO Hawk Consulting
William “Bill” F. Hawk, 82 of Milton, DE peacefully passed away on Monday morning, October 27, 2025, after a long illness at his home where he resided with his loving wife, Toni Ann, and their lovable dog, Chi. Born in Richmond, VA he was the son of the late Frances (Daugherty) and William Gibson Hawk.
In Wilmington, Delaware, Bill started his educational journey at Christ Our King Catholic grade school and while there served as an altar boy at the parish church. In 1961 he graduated from Salesianum High School and went on to earn an Associate of Science degree from the State University of New York (SUNY) in 1975. In 1978, Bill graduated from the University of Tampa with a Bachelor of Science degree and a minor in Business Management and Economics with honors (Magna Cum Laude). Always with a thirst for knowledge, Bill applied and was accepted into the National Security Studies Master Degree program at Georgetown University where he graduated with honors (Summa Cum Laude) in 1992.
After high school, Bill enlisted in the United States Army and served for three years in Korea. Returning home, he joined the Delaware National Guard and was appointed 2nd Lieutenant Artillery. Continuing with a zeal for service, Bill re-enlisted in the U.S. Army and was recognized for his exemplary performance and leadership abilities which resulted in selection as a candidate for Officer Candidate School (O.C.S.). He graduated from O.C.S. and started his career as a Commissioned Officer! He bravely did his duty by serving in combat during the Vietnam War. After 32 years in the U.S. Army, Bill retired from the branch of the Special Forces known as the Green Berets in 1992 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel!
Upon retirement, Bill began a consulting career which led him to open his own business. In addition to running his own business he had the opportunity to teach foreign exchange students at Tyson College, VA. He taught business and academic courses twice a week for 15 years. He was passionate about teaching and enjoyed learning about the traditions, backgrounds and countries of his multicultural students.
Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Toni Ann (Capodanno), son William Gibson Hawk II, wife Lesley (Comer) and 3 grandsons, Tripp, Teddy and Titan; sisters-in-law Patty Cook, Grace Mielke, Lynn Paladnietti and brothers-in-law Steve Cook, Ron Mielke and Rudy Paladnietti; cousins Carol (Nowak) Urban and husband Rich, Joseph Nowak Jr. and wife Donna, Skip Schaible and wife Leslie. Also, many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, cousins and dear friends. Bill is predeceased by mother-in-law Philomena (Poppiti) Capodanno and father-in-law Anthony Capodanno; Aunts Marie (Daugherty) Nowak, Helen (Daugherty) Schaible; and Uncles Joseph Nowak and Carl Schaible.
Where do I begin. Bill was an exceptional man in every way. To me he was the consummate gentleman. He was a principled man with unwavering loyalty to family and friends. While unapologetic for his beliefs, he was respectful of the opinions and values of others. Bill was a wonderful husband, father and pop-pop. His selfless love for his family was shown everyday through his steadfast care, strength, patience, time and protectiveness. One of the happiest days of his life was becoming a dad. From that day forward he was a positive and nurturing presence in Gibson’s life. Throughout our life’s journey together, I felt loved, valued, respected and supported. His sense of style was always on point…“Sharp Dressed Man.”
Bill had a vibrant personality, great sense of humor and a zest for life which he lived to the fullest. He was an avid reader and a wonderful conversationalist and those who knew him well could attest to the many stories he told. He was a gun enthusiast and enjoyed many hours on outdoor and indoor ranges honing his skills. In his younger years he enjoyed skiing, biking, hiking, camping, fishing and sailing…many great adventures.
His love for travel led him to Europe, Chile, Jamaica, Turkey, Aruba, Mexico, Hawaii, Canada, Alaska, the Caribbean and many places throughout the continental United States. Once settled back in Delaware he looked forward to the monthly luncheons with his Salesianum classmates and the camaraderie amongst a great group of friends. Bill also enjoyed just sitting on the back porch with music playing, a good cigar in one hand and a rum and coke in the other - “simple pleasures.” He will be tremendously missed, but will remain in our hearts forever! “Truly a life well lived.” Lastly, we express our appreciation for the hospice services provided by VITAS Healthcare, especially for the compassionate and dedicated care of April (aide) and Rachel (nurse).
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 am, on Friday, December 5, 2025, with Visitation from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, at St. Jude The Apostle Catholic Church, 152 Tulip Drive, Lewes, DE, 19958. Burial will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bill’s name to your favorite charity.
Please sign the tribute wall located on this page.
What’s your fondest memory of William?
What’s a lesson you learned from William?
Share a story where William's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with William you’ll never forget.
How did William make you smile?