The Hillsdale, Michigan, community is mourning the tragic loss of Donald Lee “Donnie” Hawkins, a longtime automotive businessman, devoted father, and grandfather who reportedly died on Friday, November 6, 2026, at the age of 78. His grandson, Ridge Hitt, also died in the same incident, leaving two families and the wider community grieving. Hawkins was known for his more than five decades in the automotive industry and for establishing a family business that became an important part of his professional legacy. Beyond his work, he treasured his family, enjoyed outdoor activities, and took pride in the generations who followed him. Early Life and Family Background Donald Lee “Donnie” Hawkins was born on September 27, 1948, in Mt. Vernon, Indiana, to Raymond and Lillian (Mattingly) Hawkins. He graduated from North Adams High School in 1966. On August 16, 1970, he married Sally Jane Russell. Their marriage lasted 55 years, and together they built a family life filled with shared experiences and lasting memories. Sally preceded him in death on September 18, 2025. His children and grandchildren remained central to his life. He took great pride in their accomplishments and valued the time they spent together. A Career Spanning More Than Five Decades in the Automotive Industry Donnie began his career in the automotive business in the early 1970s, working as a salesman for Ken Stillwell Ford. His experience and interest in the industry eventually led him to establish his own dealership. In 1979, he founded Hawkins Motors Sales in Hillsdale. Six years later, in 1985, he purchased Hawkins Chevy Olds in Hudson before later moving the business back to Hillsdale. His career represented more than five decades of involvement in the automotive industry. He was particularly proud of the business he had built and looked forward to seeing the next generation of his family continue its legacy. His grandson Ridge Hitt was expected to help with the transition of the family business, making their shared connection to the automotive industry an important part of their story. Hobbies, Interests and Life Outside Work Away from his professional responsibilities, Donnie enjoyed spending time outdoors. His favourite activities included golfing, boating on Baw Beese Lake, and snowmobiling up north. He also enjoyed cooking and experimenting with new recipes for his family, especially desserts. His curiosity and adventurous personality led him to explore new experiences, including earning his pilot’s licence. Above all, his greatest happiness came from his children and grandchildren. The memories they created together and the relationships he maintained with his loved ones were among the most meaningful parts of his life. Survivors and Family Members Donald “Donnie” Hawkins is survived by his two children, Mark (Teresa) Hawkins of Hillsdale and Dawn (Elmer) Hitt III of Jackson. His surviving grandchildren are Reece Hitt, Rayah Hitt, Abby (Sedric Ladd) Hawkins, Ryder Hawkins, and Trysten Angel. He is also survived by four brothers: Raymond “Tex” (Bonny) Hawkins, Gary (Kathy) Hawkins, Richard (Inga) Hawkins, and Dallas (Ammie) Hawkins; his sister-in-law, Jennifer Russell; and his special nephew, Doug Adams. His grandson Ridge Hitt, who died in the same incident, was also part of the family loss. Donnie was preceded in death by his wife, Sally Hawkins; his parents; and his sister, Toni Gustley. Donald “Donnie” Hawkins and Ridge Hitt Cause of Death According to the supplied obituary information, Donald “Donnie” Hawkins and his grandson Ridge Hitt died following an accident at Donnie’s home on November 6, 2026. However, the specific circumstances of the incident and the official medical causes of death have not been provided in the information available here. Further details should be confirmed through an official family statement or relevant authorities. Funeral Service and Memorial Arrangements A joint funeral service honouring Donald “Donnie” Hawkins and his grandson Ridge Hitt is scheduled for Friday, November 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Hillsdale United Brethren Church. Pastor Chris Heydenburg will officiate. Friends and relatives can pay their respects during visitation on Thursday, November 12, at VanHorn-Eagle Funeral Home in Hillsdale. Visitation hours are scheduled for 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Private family interment will take place at Northlawn Cemetery in North Adams, Michigan, at a later date. Those wishing to honour Donnie’s memory may make memorial contributions to the Greater Hillsdale Humane Society. Remembering Donald Lee “Donnie” Hawkins Donald Lee “Donnie” Hawkins leaves behind a legacy shaped by family, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to the automotive industry. From establishing Hawkins Motors Sales to enjoying time outdoors, cooking for loved ones, and exploring new adventures, he built a life filled with interests and experiences that his family will remember. His death alongside his grandson Ridge Hitt has brought profound sadness to the Hawkins and Hitt families and to those who knew them. Heartfelt condolences go out to their relatives, friends, and everyone affected by this tragic loss. May the families find comfort in the memories they shared and strength in one another during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Donald Lee “Donnie” Hawkins and Ridge Hitt. May their memories live on through the people who loved them. Information Disclaimer: This article is based on the obituary information supplied. The reported accident circumstances and family details have been presented as described in that information. Readers should consult the family or VanHorn-Eagle Funeral Home for confirmation of service details and any further official updates. For more updates, please check our Facebook social media platform [Data Source]. Thank you for reading. Post navigation James Goodwin Obituary: Community Mourns Reported Passing as Details Remain Unconfirmed Kenneth Blair Obituary: Family and Friends Mourn His Unexpected Passing