James David Hawthorne, Sr., age 91, of Leo, IN passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.  Born on January 3,1935, he was the son of the late James R. and Viola (Donnelly) Hawthorne.  David was a 1952 graduate of North Side High School in Fort Wayne.  He enjoyed cheering on his beloved IU football and basketball teams and the Chicago Cubs. He also liked to golf and spend time fishing on Whippoorwill Lake.  David was a longtime member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Grabill.  Above all, he loved his family immensely and was a good friend to many.  David will be remembered fondly for his kindness and generous heart.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Donna Hawthorne; children, Robert (Nan) Hawthorne, Dave Jr. (Patty) Hawthorne, Janie (Bob) Joyce, Cathy (Dave) Stradling, Joseph E. (Kathy) Hawthorne, Jeff (Sandy) McCard, Jodi (Michele) Freed, and John (Tara) McCard; 23 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; sister, Mary Gaskill; brother, Jimmy Hawthorne; and numerous extended family including nephew, Andy Roe.

David was proceeded in death by his first wife, Patricia Hawthorne; granddaughter, Alyssa Schall; sister, Janine Roe; and brother, Ricky Hawthorne.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 12640 St. Joe Road, Grabill, IN 46741 with visitation one hour prior.  Visitation will also be held from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN 46805. Burial will be at Leo Cemetery and Memorial Park. Fond memories and condolences can be left at www.divinemercyfuneralhome.com for the family.