Charles (Chuck) A. Hawks of Creswell, Ore., died Aug. 23, 2021 after a valiant 2 1/2-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born on Jan. 13, 1945 to Lugene (Johnson) Hawks and Charles R. Hawks, Jr. in Los Angeles, Calif.
A true “California boy,” he developed a strong interest in the ocean and sailing. After graduating from high school, he migrated to Eugene, Ore., where he enrolled at the University of Oregon in 1963. His college career was put on hold when he enlisted in the United States Air Force.
When his service was up, he returned to Eugene to complete his bachelor’s degree in political science. Chuck became an avid fan of Ducks football and continued to be for the rest of his life.
One of Chuck’s many interests was photography. He spent several years as a commercial photographer selling his works to various publications and outlets. He managed the photo department at a local Bi-Mart store then moved on to manage France Photography in Eugene. He also taught photography for adult education classes at Lane Community College.
Chuck Hawks was an avid recreational shooter for over 50 years. In addition, he was a noted researcher and writer. He began writing about guns and shooting during his college days and in 1997 he founded Guns and Shooting Online. The website was his passion and he poured tremendous energy into it. He was intent on providing the latest and most accurate information to his readers to help them understand and appreciate the subject he enjoyed so much. This enthusiasm bought thousands of readers from around the world.
Chuck is survived by his lady and best friend, Cheryl Coleman of Eugene; cousin, Suzie Prichard of Springfield and a cadre of wonderful friends near and far. At his request, no services will be held. His ashes will be cast out to sea with “Fair winds and following seas” forever.
Donations in his honor may be made to any animal shelter.
