Obituary of Hazel Walger

Hazel Barbara Walger (nee Johnson), October 8, 1938 - December 22, 2012, passed away peacefully in St. Mary's hospital, Camrose, Alberta at the age of 74 years young with family at her side. Hazel leaves to mourn her loving husband Arthur; daughter Debra Anne (Ron) of Camrose; son Robbie of Winnipeg, Manitoba; son Ricky (Karen) of Bittern Lake; six grandchildren Derrick and Jaron of Camrose, Janessa and Lenay (mother Debra) of Winnipeg, Kaylyn and Graham of Bittern Lake; five great- grandchildren Dederick, Trisha, Joshua, Jeremy, and Chance; and numerous nieces and nephews. Hazel is also survived by three sisters Mildred (Charles) Fillinger of Bashaw, Betty (Roger) Badry of Camrose, and Violet (Jerry) Dorscheid of Grande Prairie. Hazel was predeceased by her daughter Sharon Lynn; mother Alice and father Richard; two brothers Lloyd and Gordon; two sisters Irene Campbell and Joyce Johnson. Hazel's early childhood years growing up in Camrose with limited resources had impact on her outlook and her drive for a fulfilling family life. With her sisters, they found support and strength in each other, where they formed a life bond of mutual support. She attended Sunday School at the Camrose United Church, where she became a member in 1957. In her high school years, with the encouragement of teachers, she nurtured her artistic drawing gifts along with her interest in colours and fashion. She could draw beautiful flowing sketches. Early on Hazel learned to believe in herself, in her Christian faith, and in family. Many who knew her recognized that she could fight dearly for core values which included self-determination, family and a positive attitude. She married Arthur in 1957 and took on the challenge of rural life, and the caring of three subsequent children. She brought a sense of sophisticated flair to the home and shared that with her children and husband. She greatly enjoyed decorating the family home that was built in 1967 and in choosing the outfits for her children and later grandchildren. Hazel was young at heart and had a way of connecting with people where trust was often placed in her. She enjoyed making a person's day a little brighter, even at times when she may have been dealing with her own life struggles. She always had the gift of conversation with whom ever she was with. Perhaps her greatest life commitment, but definitely her dearest love, was her family. Her incredible and endless giving as a loving Homemaker never stopped flowing to her children and husband; and then to the generations of grandchildren and great grandchildren. She provided every possible family need with perfection, along with caring for the personal well-being of each family member. This was important to her as she was determined to make a good family life, and she did that perfectly and tirelessly. She was a mother not just to her own children but also to many of her nephews and nieces, grandchildren, great grandchildren and friends. She was like a second mother to many. Mom lived by love, laughter and personal strength all which she shared freely. A funeral service was held on Friday, December 28, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. from the Camrose United Church with Mary Ann Pastuck and Rev. Brian Hunter officiating. Inurnment took place in the Camrose Cemetery. Memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to the Camrose United Church, Cross Cancer Unit, or the Hospice Society of Camrose & District.