Juanita "Nita" Hawes

Juanita "Nita" Hawes, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away on May 23, 2026, at the age of 84. She was a proud elder of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indian Tribe.

Born on July 27, 1941, in Traverse City, MI, Nita built a life defined by love, connection, and an unwavering zest for life. On February 14, 1975, she married the love of her life, William "Bill" Hawes. Together, they made their home in Brighton, Michigan, where Nita dedicated 30 years of hard work to the General Motors Proving Grounds in Milford, Michigan, before happily retiring.

In 2001, Nita and Bill moved to Fairfield Glade, Tennessee, to commence their retirement in style—and Nita certainly did. Her retirement years were remarkably active and filled with joy. She could often be found golfing, bowling, clogging, and participating in liturgical dancing. A natural leader and organizer, Nita loved spending time with her friends and neighbors. She played weekly card games, helped organize the neighborhood’s "5 o'clock Somewhere" get-togethers, and kept everyone connected by creating and publishing a neighborhood newsletter.

Nita was deeply committed to giving back to her community. She generously volunteered her time mentoring high school seniors through the college application process, ushered at the local playhouse, and taught Mahjong at Roane State College. She was a proud and active member of the Plateau Corvette Club, the Red Hat Ladies Society, and recently joined the PEO Sisters organization. Her faith was also a cornerstone of her life, and she was a devoted, active member of the Fairfield Glade United Methodist Church.

Above all of her activities and accomplishments, Nita’s greatest joy was her family. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who loved her family deeply.

She is survived by her sons, David Hawes (Angela) and Tim Adamcryk; her daughters, Venetia Shomin, Stephanie Hawes, and Renee Kruger (Jason); her grandchildren, Matthew Whipple, Taylor Whipple, Eden Hawes, Darcy Hawes, Cameron Kruger, Connor Kruger, Kate Kruger, Derek Sproull, and Ashley Wurster; and her great-grandchildren, Lillian, Grace, Camila, Trey, and Annalise. She is also survived by her sisters, Ryckie Skeba and Mary Geiger.

Nita was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bill; her sister, Billie Rademacher; and her daughter, Amber Wardwell.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday June 12, at Reynolds Jonkhoff funeral home in Traverse City, MI and interment will immediately follow at Memorial Gardens in Traverse City, MI.

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