Daniel Hawkins
Daniel is survived by his immediate family: mother and father, Janet and Craig Hawkins; sister, Sarah Hawkins; and brother, Joshua Hawkins.
Daniel was filled with a love for life and adventure. He lived life large! He loved the beach, playing football, and yes, video games. He was athletically gifted, energetic, driven (well, except for doing chores and his school homework), vibrant, very inquisitive, and yet with all this, simply put, funny. It was difficult to be around Daniel for any length of time and not have him bring a smile to your face. He could bring joy to your soul through his athletic abilities, his friendly personality, or his sense of humor. Daniel celebrated life. He often made the simplest tasks entertaining. He loved to explore. 
He would even go hiking by himself, just to see what was there. Nonetheless, he loved being with people, especially his closest friends. While Daniel was often light-hearted, he would also wrestle with deep questions, such as ethical dilemmas. He had a sharp mind and it was enjoyable to watch him engage it. In every sense, he had a wonder for life.
In short, Daniel was delightful! We had the joy of having him for sixteen years.
Daniel loved God, life, sports, and his friends and family. The world is a poorer place without him. We will greatly miss him! Yet, we know one day we will be united with him in heaven through our trust in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.
Rest in peace, sweet Daniel. I don’t know any of the families of these three angels but my heart is just broken and so full at the same time. The families have shown such grace and forgiveness which can only come from our Lord & Savior. The fact that all three best friends were called back to heaven can be no coincidence. These boys were sent here into these exact families to teach us all a lesson- they are real time proof of the goodness and fullness and mercy of God. I wish with every piece of me that this tragedy did not happen but I want the families to know that the world is watching and we understand the lesson you are teaching us all! God bless you all, especially those sweet boys. <3
How beautiful! Knowing that they all knew the Lord Jesus as their Savior & are with Him and enjoying Him now. And only our God can turn something sooo horrific into something good, of which He will! God’s grace I’m praying you will experience everyday in everyway!
I am so sorry for your loss. may your heart start healing. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
Deepest condolences. Forgiveness is a powerful indicator of someone’s purity of spirit and soul. May your family be at peace.
I am so very sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine the pain you feel. Your son sounds like an amazing young man. I know you will be with him again. May the Lord comfort you.
Thank you for your forgiveness, you’ve been through a lot, your son is safe in Gods arms.
I am so heartbroken by your senseless loss. To say my deepest sympathies, thoughts, love, prayers are with you all, is not enough. I am a mom of a 16 year old & 20 year old and can’t imagine your pain. The boys were playing a game & this should NEVER have been the outcome. I so admire your strength & faith to issue forgiveness to the man who insanely took your son. I wouldn’t be strong enough to do the same. May God bless & keep you all
I’m sorry for all of your losses. I can’t imagine my kids who are grown being gone.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sorry for your loss
Dear Craig and Janet,
I am Jennifer C.’s sister. Our family here in Iowa have been praying for you and the other families involved. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” Ps. 46
What a beautiful tribute to the boys! My condolences to the family! 2020 has just been a horrible year! GOD has a plan though! Hopefully, GOD’s word and your memories will comfort you when you need it most.
Rip Daniel
I just saw the story about your sons and I am heartbroken May they continue to Rest In Peace.. ❤️
I am so sorry for the loss of these three beautiful boys. What a senseless tragedy. My heart breaks for all your families. I will keep you all in my prayers. I will also keep in my prayers you get justice. God Bless you.
This is a awesome story this was a loss of 3 angels they are running in Heaven together sad it had to happen may God send his love and peace to families and friends
Awesome story ?
I didn’t know the boys but what an inspirational story of their friendship. Sending prayers to their families and friends. May they rest easy while enjoying the ride in the sky.
Daniel was indeed a special kid from a very special Godly and loving family. We love you guys so much and we hurt for and with you. Yes he is in heaven now and you will see him again but the loss and here and now is very difficult. It is almost a year later and still very difficult to accept and understand. We love you Craig, Janet, Sarah, and Josh
Chris and Laura Partin