Bloomington, IN - 
Carter Zachary "Zak" Hawkins


Born August 24, 1976, passed too soon on September 6, 2025.



Zak spent his early childhood in Washington, Indiana and finished his school years in Bloomington. He lived in Oregon briefly before moving to Kauai, Hawaii where he resided for almost 20 years. He recently returned to Bloomington to be with his girlfriend. He cherished deep friendships in all of the places he called home.

Forever young-at-heart, Zak embraced life to the fullest, prioritizing experiences over material wealth. He was a creative soul, expressing himself through many mediums and creative endeavors. Whether he was sculpting, shaping clay, painting or creating with his hands, he was fully in his work. His art carried his spirit- wild, free and deeply true.

Zak loved making people happy. He loved playing soccer and coaching his Kauai nieces' teams. He was a lifelong IU fan, always showing up for games fully geared up in candy stripe pants or his prized Isiah Thomas jersey.


Zak's biggest heartbreak happened when he tragically lost his infant son Joshoya, who passed in his arms at just 5 days old.

He left behind so many who loved him, including his mother, Cate Hyatt; his father, Ron Hawkins; his brothers, Colin and Shelby; his sisters, Shannon and Renee, his nieces, Molly, Sophie, Clara, Lexi, Scarlett, Ainana, Ona, Charlotte; his aunts Cindy and Nancy; his cousins, Brandon, Aaron, Kelli, Robin, Kim, Angie, Mark and Jennifer; his grandmother, Phyllis Hart; his girlfriend, Genna Dick and a truly incredible family of friends.


Celebrations of Zak's life were held in Bloomington and on Kealia Beach.

His life reminds us to live boldly, to create without fear, to love deeply and to embrace each moment. His presence will continue to ripple in every wave, in the laughter of his friends, in the spirit of play and the beauty of art, and in the love of his family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Zak's name to Amethyst House, a place dedicated to providing healing and hope for others.

Amethyst House, 645 N. Walnut Street, Bloomington, IN. 47404

www.amethysthouse.org.