Linda Ann Hawkinson (57), of Hamilton, MT was called home to Heaven on April 12, 2022, from complications of long-term illness.
Linda Ann Miksch was born in Helena, MT on March 6th, 1965 to James and Lorelei (Wheatley) Miksch. Linda was second oldest of four girls. Her fondest childhood memories were spent making mud pies with grandpa Reed (who actually ate them) and spending time with her sisters at the family’s Sawmill Creek property. She enjoyed exploring the wildflower filled land, camping, and drinking the pure spring water.
During her senior year of high school, Linda met Loren Hawkinson in 1983. Loren and Linda were married in the late summer of 1985. The couple was blessed with two children, Raechel Ann and Aaron James. After 10 years of marriage Loren and Linda parted ways. They continued to live and raise their children in Hamilton, MT.
Linda spent many years working in the service industry, from hairstyling to bartending and waitressing. In early 2000’s she gleaned much fulfillment and satisfaction in completing her certificates at The Montana School of Massage Therapy in Missoula. Eager and excited, she engaged her new career until the physical strain of practice prevented her from continuing on with her new profession. She always took great pride in taking care of and showing compassion for all of her customers and clients.
Linda loved to dance. To sing. To write. To create. She prided herself in having a bit of an adventurous free spirit. Looking at the world through an artistic lens, from a place of understanding; she embraced the simple beauty of the world and always showed great empathy to the people around her, no matter their background.
Those that loved her remember some of her happiest moments were when she was looking out over something greater than herself – the Oregon coast, mountain crest views, sandy beaches of Hawaii, and the New York City skyline.
Linda’s most recent joy was found in the birth of her grandson, Henry Aaron, in 2017. Despite being in the height of her medical struggles, Linda was still able to cherish nearly five years as a grandmother. Being a mother and grandmother were Linda’s deepest callings. To be loved by her, meant that you knew what it was to be loved deeply and unconditionally.
Throughout youth and adulthood, Linda radiated hopefulness and a strong faith in Jesus, that carried her through the trials presented to her in life. Linda exemplified the qualities and attributes of a true survivor, in every sense of the word.
We like to imagine her where burdens of the past and her afflictions have been laid to rest… With sand between her toes, gazing out over the eternal expanse of a sunset-lit ocean song; her hair weaving in the wind, looking out over endless mountains and dreams of canyons.
Linda was preceded in death by her grandparents.
Linda is survived by her parents, James and Lorelei Miksch of Helena, MT. Daughter Raechel Hawkinson (Chris Rockhold) and grandson, Henry. Son; Aaron Hawkinson of Hamilton, MT. Sisters; Errin Rupp (Mark) of Anaconda, MT, Tina Jensen (Monty) of Belgrade, MT. and Jamie Miksch of Helena, MT. As well as two aunts, two uncles, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 27th, 2022, at 11am, at Daly Leach Memorial Chapel; 1010 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT. Graveside burial will take place at Grantsdale Cemetery with reception to follow.