Hazel L. Smith

Hazel Smith was a loving and spiritual woman, who dedicated her life to her family and her faith. Although Hazel lived a full and rewarding life, with interests ranging from mushroom hunting to playing the organ, family always came first on her list. Hazels generosity, kind heart, ethic of hard work, and fun-loving spirit will live on in the hearts and memories of all those whose lives she touched. Hazel Louise was born on January 27, 1924, to proud parents William and Emma (Mason) Parker. She came into the world of Falmouth, Michigan, and was born right at home. William supported his family as a plumber, while Emma was a homemaker. Hazel had a happy childhood, although she did have a brush with scarlet fever as a baby. When Hazel was sixteen years old, she moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan. She lived with her Aunt Pat, and worked in the kitchen at the local hospital. A few years later, in 1941, Hazel met a young man named Richard Dick Smith on a blind date. It was love at first sight for Hazel and Dick, and the happy couple was married on December 25, 1942. Since Dick was in the army, serving under General Patton, Hazel moved to Muskegon, Michigan, where she lived with her new in-laws. Later, Dick would find a job with Teldyne Continental Motors, while Hazel was an inspector at the Kaydon Corporation. In the years to come, Hazel and Dick were blessed with four children, whom they named Richard Jr., Larry, Roger, and Linda (tragically, Richard Jr. passed away as an infant). The Smith family belonged to Calvin Christian Reformed Church, where Hazel was a faithful member for many years. Hazel and Dicks growing family soon needed more space, and they built a new home for themselves at 1561 Goody Road. Hazel was an excellent cook, who always put a delicious meal on the table for her family. She didnt like being the disciplinarian, however, and the kids all remember her favorite phrase: Wait til your Dad gets home! For vacations, Hazel and her family made many happy memories on camping trips to destinations such as the Upper Peninsula and Mackinac Island. She also enjoyed family deer hunting expeditions in Baldwin, Dicks annual army reunions, and family reunions. In 1969, Hazels son Larry served as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. Hazel was very concerned about her sons safety, and one of the happiest moments of her life was the day Larry came back home, safe and sound. In her free time, Hazel loved spending time in the great outdoors. She was an avid gardener and landscaper, and every year she planted a huge garden. In 1972, Hazel and Dick bought a cabin in White Cloud, which became their weekend home. They also made several unforgettable trips to Europe, including a trip in which they followed General Pattons drive across Europe, just as Dick had done years before. Hazel retired from the Kaydon Corporation in 1986, bringing a close to 23 years of loyal service. By this time Hazel was a grandmother, and she relished the chance to spend more time with her grandchildren that retirement brought. Sadly, Dick, Hazels beloved husband of 63 years, passed away in 2006. In 2011 Hazel suffered her first stroke, with a second following in 2012. She was deeply saddened by her son Rogers death on October 9, 2012, and her health continued to decline. Generous and hard-working, stubborn and fun-loving, Hazel was a devoted wife, a loving mother and grandmother, and a loyal friend. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her many friends and family members. Mrs. Hazel Louise Smith died on November 14, 2012, at the age of 88, surrounded by her loving family. Hazels family includes her sons, Larry Smith of Muskegon and the late Roger (SueAnne) Smith of Florida; her daughter, Linda Counselor of Muskegon; her grandchildren, Michelle Smith, Christopher Smith, Shala Beck, and James Counselor; and her great-grandchildren, Kiah, Faith, and Dakota. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dick, in 2006; her sons, Richard Jr. and Roger; her great-granddaughter, Summer; 4 brothers; and 2 sisters. A service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, November 28, at Clock Life Story Funeral Home - Muskegon. Interment will be at Restlawn Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Harbor Hospice Poppen House. Please visit Hazels personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can learn more about her life, share a favorite memory or photo, and sign the online guestbook.