Arthur (Art) Curtis Hawkins D.D.S.

Dr. Arthur (Art) C. Hawkins, 88, of Albuquerque, died peacefully on October 14 of complications from a stroke.

Art was born on November 27, 1935, in Carlsbad, NM, to Edwin and Louise Hawkins.

He attended the University of New Mexico, Northwestern University, and Baylor University, attaining a doctorate in dental science, specializing in orthodontics.

He married ldolia (Dodie) Hawkins in 1988 and enjoyed a blended family of eight children.

He served in the United States Navy as a dentist in the early 1960's, then established his own successful orthodontic practice in Albuquerque, where he practiced for over 30 years. He served in the New Mexico legislature for four years in the 1990's.

Art was a joyful soul who loved life, his family, his faith, his profession and desserts. He was an avid duplicate bridge player, tennis player, master gardener, skier, opera lover and world traveler. He was a native New Mexican and lifelong Methodist. Over his lifetime he was a strong supporter of Optimist International, NM Symphonic Chorus, Opera Southwest and Harmony Class at Central United Methodist Church.

Art is survived by wife Dodie, children Heidi Hawkins, Ed Hawkins (Chris) and Haley Hawkins (Klaus), and stepchildren Dan Cassidy (Linda), Paul Cassidy (Lisa), Cara Lambert, and Charles Collier (Celina), as well as 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Louise and Edwin Hawkins, brother Edwin, sister Barbara Harrison, and stepdaughter Paula Farkas (Todd).

A memorial service will be held on November 9 at 2pm at Central United Methodist Church in Albuquerque.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Art's memory to Central United Methodist Church, 201 University Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106.