J. P. "Jake" Hawkinson had been in the north most of his life and was involved in numerous business ventures.

From a cook in mining and railway camps, to cafe, bakery and confectionery owner.

Finally he built the Stewart Steam Laundry.

Another of his ventures was Jake's Cafe, situated at the eastern end of the King Edward Hotel.

Originally the Exchange Grill, this location had been the site of Stewart's stock exchange in 1910. 

Tall and stately, with well-trimmed goatee, Jake was conscientious, ready with good advice if asked, and always willing to help someone out of his difficulties. 

Jake married a widow with two children, Yvonne and Buddy, and eventually had two daughters of his own, Joyce and Juanita.