We regret to advise of the death of Firefighter Sergeant Cecil Thomas Hawley, CD (Ret’d), suddenly in his Edmonton AB home on 9 April 2023 at the age of 74 years.
Cecil was born in the small fishing village of North Sydney, Cape Breton. He joined the Canadian Forces at 17 in 1965 and left Cape Breton to explore the world. Cecil served his country for twenty-seven years on land, sea and in the air. He was first a member of the Black Watch Regiment of Canada and then the Royal Canadian Regiment in 1970 when the Black Watch ceased having a Regular Force component. Cecil later remustered to the Firefighter occupation with the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Some of Cecil's career postings were to Camp Aldershot NS with the Black Watch, CFB Borden for his Firefighter training, CFB Edmonton, CFB Shearwater, HMCS Saguenay and back to CFB Edmonton for his last posting before retirement.
After his retirement, Cecil continued a life of service. His final calling was as Santa Claus at Londonderry Mall with his wife Mrs. Claus by his side. In addition to his time at the mall, He visited children in hospitals, daycare centres and schools, including the Stollery Children’s Hospital. He also visited retirement and nursing homes as he believed children came in all ages. He could be found in his Santa suit in Cuba, giving little gifts to the hotel staff and taking pictures with guests. He was an inspiration to everyone and quickly made friends wherever he went.
Online condolences can be sent to the funeral home. An Open House with a Celebration of Life will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Kingsway Branch #175 {14339 – 50 Street} on 28 April 2023 from 1:00 to 5:00 PM.
