I remember when we moved in with Uncle Jack and Aunt Hazel in Montana, I must have been only about 4 years old, but I have images of Aunt Hazel cooking on a woodstove and bringing in wood for a fire. I always admired her free spirit and self- sufficiency. She was a woman ahead of her time. When we would have family gatherings at the Womans Club, I can still hear her laughing above anyone else. She was such a kick. Thanks for this beautiful tribute site and the great pictures you posted, Lynda. I can just see the three sisters together again, laughing and singing.
tomih
7th January 2012
I knew her as Aunt Hazel. My memories of her are scattered here and there as you moved in and out of our lives. When you lived behind us in Monrovia, I was most focused on my fun cousins. It was way too short of time that you lived there, but I have memories of those times...and what I recall about Aunt Hazel was how great she dressed and how the atmosphere changed when she came around. She definitely stood out in a crowd for her flamboyance and style and uncommon beauty. It was a very meaningful to Mom when they were able to share their love of Jesus later on in life. I love all the history you wrote here, filling in the gaps for me. She lived her life fully and well. Reminds me of a qoute from St. Iraneus: "The Glory of God is man fully alive." Aunt Hazel surely tickeled God's heart.
lauriekip
6th January 2012
I met Hazel the same day I met her sister, my future wife, Frances. I was invited to their home for a scavenger hunt, and I was paired with Hazel and another couple. We went all over No. Phoenix trying to fill up the list we had. When we got back, we played spin the bottle (not a kissing game), but when the bottle pointed to you, you had to do something funny. Of course, Hazel was the life of the party. I always had a lot of fun being around her and she became a good friend and sister-in-law. We even lived with her and Jack in Montana for a short period of time. Hazel always had alot of friends and was really popular in ROTC at school. Hazel was my favorite sister-in-law, and I have a special place in my heart for her. Thank you for setting up this wonderful memorial for her. It brought back good memories. Love, Uncle Tom
themaxhelm
6th January 2012