Daniel Wayne Hawbaker

Daniel “Dan” Wayne Hawbaker of National City, California, 64, passed away in Arlington, Texas on December 2, 2023. Dan was a man of grit and determination, overcoming many obstacles in his difficult childhood. He was known for his charismatic personality, exceptional work ethic, and legendary storytelling. Christian, husband, brother, father, grandfather, teacher, coach, restauranteur. He was tough, generous, and fun-loving.

Most recently, Dan served his 11th year as a teacher at Sam Houston High School, where he taught AP Economics and AP Government. He began his tenure at Sam Houston High School teaching U.S. History and serving as a freshman football and basketball coach.

Dan previously owned and operated the locally beloved Buck n’ Loons restaurant, which proudly served Arlington for 12 years. The restaurant opened on April 1, 1999. Early employee shirts were printed with the opening date and the phrase “No Foolin’!”

His kids and grandkids will regard him fondly for various reasons, but perhaps none more fabled than his gift of storytelling. Truth-telling optional, Dan’s stories captivated his audience with remarkable twists and unbelievable embellishments—an exception he’d take with anyone who called him out for it by saying, “It’s my story, I’ll tell it how I want.” Such was his charm. A man of old school humor—an affable, irreverent, clever orator.

Moreover, Dan maintained a multitude of unique traditions, which only he could convey. These traditions included, but were not limited to: writing personal, hand-written notes on the inside cover of books he gifted, using his 20/15 vision to defeat his children in the alphabet game during epically long road trips, training his children in oratory and debate competitions, conducting the entirety of his Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve, and annually gifting a bouquet of roses to his wife on his wedding anniversary equivalent to the number of years of his marriage (42 was the final count!).

What kind of man was Dan? He was a voracious learner with a servant’s heart. For example, as a young father, Dan set out to coach his oldest son’s little league baseball team. Though Dan had never formally played baseball as a child, he committed himself to studying hours’ worth of Mr. Baseball VHS tapes to prepare for his coaching role. His homework paid off, and he instantly struck gold when he coached Kristofer’s first Little League team, the Giants, to the city championship. His youth baseball coaching reign ended years later when his venerable “Diamond Dogs”, posted a very humble record. Still, this early youth baseball endeavor affirmed his passion for teaching, coaching, and community service in Arlington—a pursuit that immediately benefitted his children and later Sam Houston High School.

It’s hard to quantify Dan’s tremendous impact on the Arlington community. He engaged the community across numerous endeavors, and always seemed to find ways to lead and mentor those around him throughout them all. His personality was larger than life. From restauranteur to teacher and coach, Dan honorably served the city of Arlington for 35 years.

Reflecting on a full life, Dan would thank his wife for 47 years of friendship. Sheri was his rock and soulmate. Without her love and support, he could not have been the Dan we all came to know and love. He would also express his immense pride in his children. They have each matured into honorable, productive members of society. Their remarkable character bears his legacy. Finally, he would reiterate his faith in Jesus Christ, his Lord and Savior. Most certainly, he is standing with Jesus now—probably retelling one of his famed stories!

Dan is survived by: his wife, Sheri, his children, Kristofer, Stefani, and Gavin, and his ten grandchildren, Katherine, Hudson, Cooper, Ryker, Haley, Madison, Lily, Parker, Jaxon, and Lucy.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, Dan requested all donations be made to the Richard Greene Scholarship Program at www.texasrangers.com/donate. In the “In Honor/Memoriam” section, please type “Dan Hawbaker, Richard Greene Scholarship Program.”