Eric Gary Hawthorne “The Big E, The Friendly Giant” went to The Last Rodeo Nov. 22/2024 at the age of 75.
Eric’s early life on the farm at Torrington likely influenced his love of the land and the cowboy life. Formal schooling took place in Torrington and later at Milk River but no doubt his preferred education took place in the hills on the Snow, Palmer, Roundup, Knight and A7 ranches. Eric & Lynda married in 1972 & lived on the ranch with son Chris. Later in the 70’s they moved to Granum where sons John and Jim were added to the family. Eric lived in Granum till just prior to his passing.
Eric worked for Dan Erdman’s fabrication shop at Claresholm and later with Dan’s heavy equipment. His desire to work with iron lead to work with numerous construction companies and machine shops.
Throughout the years he kept a keen interest in knowing what his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews were involved with. Even though he was a man of few words, friends and family could count on being reminded of their birthdays by Eric’s humorous cards.
In retirement years he enjoyed woodworking and coffee at the Granum Drop-in Centre. He also bought and traded a few motorcycles, but his favourite was his 3 wheeled Spyder, possibly because it had adequate storage for trips to Claresholm for grocery and refreshment acquisitions “It has room for a 24”.
Eric is survived by sons Chris (Katrina), John (Cathy), and Jim (Jodi) & by siblings Wayne (Marilyn), Reed (Deborah), Andrea Lynn (James), sister-in-law Donna Corbett, several grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by parents Jay & Diane and brother Kerry.
Eric asked that his ashes be spread in the hills west of Granum – which will take place at a later date.