Raymond (Ray) Hawkins, age 78, of Lakeville, MN, peacefully passed away on May 9, 2025. Ray was born in Hennepin County, on March 4, 1947, to Roy and Geraldine (Ross) Hawkins. He was a 1966 graduate from Rosemount High School. Ray was drafted into the army in 1969, and proudly served his country as a cook. He served in Vicenza, Italy, where he loved working with the people, and was deployed to Vietnam.

After Serving his country, Ray went to culinary school. He worked in numerous restaurants, and  owned his own for a while. Ray also worked in autobody, well drilling, and loved working with horses at the race track in Carol Stream, IL and Canterbury Park in MN. He loved animals and always had a rescue dog, as well as a never ending love for gardening and yard work, camping, and spending time with family and especially the Vietnam Vets that had a huge impact on his life.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents, and brother Bruce Hawkins. He is survived by his siblings Glen (Vernie), Lee (Marnie), Brian (Katherine), Betty (Mark) Simonett, and Barbara (Denny) Smith; sister-in-law Mary Hawkins; numerous nieces and nephews; grand nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Service will be held 10:30 am, Tuesday, May 20, 2025; at Grace Community Bible Church, 8748  210th St. West, Lakeville, MN. With a visitation starting at 9:30 am. Interment will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at 12:45 pm. Luncheon will be served after the service.

Condolences at: www.whitefuneralhomes.com