Paul E. “Hawk” Gifford, 78 of Valparaiso, passed away peacefully at his home, with his loving wife by his side, on Monday, March 18, 2024. He was born March 2, 1946 in Merrillville, Indiana, the son of Elton and Bethel (Wells) Gifford. Paul grew up on a farm next to Deep River County Park in Hobart and attended Merrillville High School, where he played basketball and ran cross country. In 1964, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force obtaining the rank of sergeant and earning two bronze stars, Hawk was a proud Vietnam Veteran. He worked as a mechanic, carpenter, and retired from Continental Can in 2002 as a lithographer. Hawk was a member of the VFW Post 988 of Valparaiso and the American Legion Post 94 of Valparaiso and enjoyed playing ping pong, golf, watching football, especially the Chicago Bears, and laughing with friends.
On July 15, 2007, Paul married Laurie J. Tucker who survives along with his children, Paula (John) George, Roger Gifford, and Christine Gifford; grandchildren, Chloe, Noah, and Grace George, Cooper and Jaxsen Gifford, Jaden Zahm, and Nixon Ewer; mother of his children, Alma (Brim) Wehner; and his sister-in-law, Mary Gifford. Paul cherished being brother-in-law and “Uncle Hawk” to Tom (Karen) Tucker and their children, Rebecca, Nathan, and Zachary, Karla (Fred) Krueger and their children, Hannah, Meghan, and Lindsey, Joy Brown, and Mike Tucker and his daughter, McKayla. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Roger Gifford.
A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, March 22, 2024 with Military Honors at 6:30 PM followed by fellowship and dinner at the VFW Post 988, 705 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, casual attire please. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to VFW Post 988.
GUESTBOOK
Paula, Roger and Christine, you are in my thoughts and prayers upon the loss of your father. May your memories of him bring you comfort. -Lee Nevills
Sorry for your loss Laurie and family! He will be missed! -Minnie Porter
May you have comfort knowing he's now in the arms of Jesus. So glad to say he was my friend. He was a great man! -Teresa Jones (Terri)
Laurie, sending my condolences to you on the loss of Hawk. Praying for comfort to you, his family and friends during this difficult time. -Shellie Marrs
Laurie: Prayers of comfort from both of us. -Harry and Marian Burt, Mesa, AZ
One of the few people I can truly call a real friend. RIP brother. Condolences to your family.. -Tom & Anne Groark
