Hazel Josephine Slauzis

April 4, 1924 – April 26, 2025

Hazel Slauzis, a remarkable woman whose life spanned more than a century, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2025, at the age of 101. Her journey, which began on a dairy farm in Athens, Wisconsin, was defined by resilience, independence, and a love for her family and friends.

Born on April 4, 1924, Hazel was the 13th of 15 children born to Peter and Francesca Ellenbecker. From a young age, she displayed fierce independence and a dream of a life beyond the farm. At just 15, she set out for Chicago, seeking work and independence. With each challenge, Hazel rose—learning quickly, working hard, and always moving forward.

In 1944, she met Bill Slauzis, a draftsman at the defense plant where she worked. They married in 1951, and moved to southern California in 1953, where they built a new life full of possibility and beautiful weather.

Hazel raised three children—Bruce, Sandra, and Brian, beginning as a stay-at-home mom and continuing to provide for her family as a dedicated employee at places like Montgomery Ward, L&L Clothing, and Stroh’s Brewery. She was also a spirited Las Vegas tour bus hostess in her retirement, Hazel never stopped moving, dreaming, and doing.

She had a zest for life that never faded. She and Bill traveled the world, and even after his passing in 2009, after 58 years of marriage, she continued to live life fully, surrounded by children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends, and her beloved dogs and cats. Hazel loved talking with her friends and playing games like Bingo, Bunko, and Train. She was lucky and liked going to Las Vegas and playing the slot machines. She never stopped moving. She worked hard to maintain her health, being a proud member of the groups Taking Off the Pounds (TOPS) and Keeping Off the Pounds (KOPS). She approached each day with purpose and tenacity.

Hazel’s life was a testament to strength, and perseverance. She embraced change, met hardship with courage, and found joy in both the extraordinary and the everyday.

She is survived by her three children and their spouses, six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Hazel’s legacy lives on in the hearts she touched and the stories she leaves behind. Hers was truly a life well-lived.