Hawkins started at his father's company in 1937 at the age of 15, and by 1948 he was a member of its board of directors. During World War II he served in the United States Army Air Forces and conducted aerial reconnaissance. Hawkins earned Master's Degrees in both chemical engineering and industrial chemistry from the Case School of Applied Science. During the '60s he took over as president and CEO until his retirement in 1992. One of his greatest accomplishments at Waterlox involved development of a patent for the production of rubber mats used in the automotive industry.
Robert L. Hawkins Jr., the retired second-generation president and CEO of Waterlox Coatings Corporation (Cleveland) and son of its founder, passed away June 11 at the age of 89. He died in his home from natural causes.
Hawkins started at his father's company in 1937 at the age of 15, and by 1948 he was a member of its board of directors. During World War II he served in the United States Army Air Forces and conducted aerial reconnaissance. Hawkins earned Master's Degrees in both chemical engineering and industrial chemistry from the Case School of Applied Science. During the '60s he took over as president and CEO until his retirement in 1992. One of his greatest accomplishments at Waterlox involved development of a patent for the production of rubber mats used in the automotive industry.
Hawkins leaves behind a strong family legacy at Waterlox, a company that today is run by his son, CEO Jay Hawkins, and granddaughter, Vice President Kellie Hawkins Schaffner.
"My father was not only a kind and generous man, but he was a pioneer in this industry," said Jay Hawkins. "He will be sorely missed by his colleagues, friends and especially our family."
Hawkins' family suggests memorial contributions to The Hospice of the Western Reserve, 300 East 185th St., Cleveland, Ohio 44119.
