Obituary: Hawley, Leigh

HAWLEY, Leigh

Leigh Hawley, age 56, passed away suddenly on May 30, 2012.

Leigh was born in Spokane, WA on December 19, 1955 to Lawrence and Donna Hawley.

He graduated from North Central High School where he lettered in football, swimming and water polo.

He also played tennis and was on the track team.

Leigh’s amazing voice was one of many that sang for President Nixon during Expo ‘74.

Following high school, he joined the U.S. Army where he served six years as a Military Policeman.

While stationed in Hawaii, he received numerous accommodations.

He attended the University of Hawaii and after his return to Spokane, Eastern Washington University.

Leigh worked as an EMT for Spokane Ambulance, taught CPR and First Aid, and was employed for 30 plus years as the security supervisor at Empire Health Services first at St. Luke’s Hospital and later at Deaconess Medical Center.

“Big Daddy” was admired and respected for his knowledge, dedication, work ethic, and ability to keep his cool in any situation.

He was always available to lend a helping hand.

Leigh was a champion dart player, loved playing golf, cooking, barbecuing, and Disneyland.

He could build or fix anything.

Leigh was a loving husband, father, brother and friend.

He was so very proud of his daughter, his greatest joy and was most often found in the stands or auditoriums cheering her on.

As a “dance dad” he would laughingly complain about his clothes being covered in glitter.

The sparkle in his smile was truly brightest when watching her perform or compete.

Leigh is survived by his wife Kelly, daughter Jessica, sisters Luana and Laura Hawley, brother-in-law Rob Hoveland, nephew Jeffrey, all of Spokane, sister-in-law Darlene, niece Heather and nephew Jeremy of Seattle.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Larry Hawley.

A memorial service will be held at Heritage Funeral Home on June 5, 2012 at 12:30 pm.

A graveside service will follow at 2:45 pm at Washington State Veterans Cemetery.

A memorial fund has been set up in his name at Spokane Teachers Credit Union.