James E. Hawthorn

Long-time island resident James E. “Fuzzy” Hawthorn died peacefully of heart failure associated with lung cancer Dec. 14 at Harrison Hospital. He was 78.

He was born June 13, 1926 in Seattle to Loyd Hawthorn and Eva (May) Hawthorn.

A civil engineer with a degree from the University of Washington, he spent 36 years designing and overseeing construction of large sewer systems in Western Washington during long stints at Carey and Kramer, Consulting Engineers, and the Municipality of Metropolitan Seattle.

An activist by nature, he was involved with the original Bainbridge Planning Commission. He donated to progressive causes, especially ecological ones.

He is survived by sons, Scott Hawthorn of Bainbridge, Joel Hawthorn of Matlock, Wash., and Max Hawthorn of Indianola; daughter Carrie Sasynuik of Fall City; a brother, Robert Hawthorn of Georgetown, Texas; and six grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his sister, June Hawthorn, and his former wife, Phyllis “Maggie” Hawthorn.

At his request, there will be no services. Cremation will be by Miller-Woodlawn Mortuary in Bremerton. In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to Helpline, 282 Knechtel Ave., Bainbridge Island, WA 98110.