Catherine Lydia Hawk

Catherine Lydia (Carlson) Hawk, age 85, of Hudson, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026. Cathy was born on May 20, 1940, in Brooklyn, NY, the daughter of George and Mary (Buckley) Carlson. She was raised in Brooklyn and grew up enjoying bike riding, watching movies, playing tag and stickball, and spending time at the local candy store listening to music. She graduated from Prospect Heights High School in 1958.

As an adult, Cathy followed her family to the Midwest and settled in the Twin Cities. There she began her career at Carlson Company, serving as an administrative assistant. It was also in Minnesota that she met and married her best friend and life partner, Don Hawk, on July 24, 1984. Together they lived and loved life in several Twin Cities suburbs before ultimately retiring to western Wisconsin. Although she spent the second half of her life in Minnesota and Wisconsin, Cathy’s unmistakable Brooklyn accent remained a charming part of who she was.

Cathy had a deep love for animals, whether caring for family pets or watching and feeding the birds outside her window. She especially cherished holidays and family gatherings—fondly remembering childhood Christmases at her aunt’s home in Queens, as well as the large, joyful celebrations with Don’s children and grandchildren.

Cathy was preceded in death by her parents; her two brothers, Joseph W. and George F. Carlson; her first husband, Joseph M. Dowd; her second husband, Donald C. Hawk, Sr.; and stepson, Steve Hawk. She is survived by her sister‑in‑law, Judith Carlson (Joe) of Hudson, WI; four nieces and nephews; five stepchildren; and many great‑nieces and great-nephews, step‑grandchildren and step-great grandchildren.

Her kindness and gentle presence will be deeply missed.