Joseph Quinton Hawley

Joseph Quinton Hawley went home to be with the Lord on February 12, 2022. He was 92 years old. Though he will be lovingly missed by so many, we choose to celebrate his life.

Joe discovered his passion for working the land at an early age while working with a local dairy farmer in exchange for room and board. His love of adventure led him to hitchhike across the country landing him in Ukiah, Oregon. He eventually joined the Air Force. While on duty in Tacoma, Washington, he met the love of his life, Redonda M. Hawley. They married on February 21, 1953.

After serving his country, it took three colleges, several full-time jobs, and many years to finish his college days. During this time, his three children were born: Michael Quinton in Tacoma, Washington, Claudia Nell in Corvallis, Oregon, and Gayle Emily in Logan, Utah. Their fourth child, Joel Kenneth, wasn’t born until after a wrong turn led them to Priest Lake, Idaho.

It was here where Joe pursued his career with the United States Forest Service and eventually retired as the fire control officer of Kaniksu National Forest to begin his life as a cattle rancher.

Joe had a passion for everything outdoors. He loved to hunt, fish, trap, garden, and race his sled dogs.

Joe will be remembered for his hearty laugh, continuous smile, and love of telling stories. He always took the time to stop for a chat, and in return, his friends always walked away feeling the joy.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Nell and Joe Hawley; sister, Ann Johnson; and wife, Donna.

He is survived by his sons, Michael of Ft. Morgan, Colorado, Joel (Billie) of Nashville, Tennessee; and daughters, Claudia Hawley of Littleton, Colorado, and Gayle Austad (Jeff) of Knoxville, Tennessee. Joe was blessed with eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and many cherished friends.

A special thank you to Priest Lake EMTs and Holy Family Hospital of Spokane, Washington, for their professional and loving care.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring of 2022.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to: Priest Lake Lions Club P.O. Box 453 Nordman, ID 83848. For more information contact Gayle Austad at jgmhaustad@aol.com.