Wilbur Alvern Hawkinson was born January 29, 1918 in Benson, Minnesota, the son of Axel and Ella (Carlson) Hawkinson. He was baptized and confirmed into the Christian faith at Trinity Lutheran Church by Rev. Chell. He grew up in Cashel Township of Swift County, Minnesota, and attended school through the eighth grade at District #21. Wilbur served his country in the United States National Guard from 1947 - 1951. On June 2, 1942, Wilbur was united in marriage to Jeanette Gilronan at St. Francis Catholic Church in Benson. The couple was blessed with two children and 68 years of marriage. Wilbur farmed in Cashel and Torning Townships and also drove truck to grain terminals in the Twin Cities. During the early 1950's, he worked as a custodian at St. Francis Catholic School in Benson. Wilbur served as a Director on the Kerkhoven Hayes Insurance Co. and also sat on the board for Minnesota Valley Breeders Association. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Wilbur was called from this life on Saturday, January 8, 2011 at Southview Manor in Benson. He attained the age of 92 years, 11 months and 9 days. Wilbur is survived by his wife Jeanette of Benson; his daughters: Helen (Jim) Amundson of Benson and Mary (Burton) Amundson of Benson; five grandchildren: Chris Amundson, Sara Lowery, Jana McGinty, Kathy Amundson, and Brian Amundson; seven great-grandchildren: Megan Amundson, Eric Staton, Elizabeth Staton, Nicholas Staton, Lily Lowery, Ella McGinty, and Emily McGinty; a sister, Lorraine Olson of Scottsdale, AZ; and other relatives and friends. Preceding him in death were his parents; and one sister, Connie Rohne.
