Hazel Marie Kassell

Marie was born in Sheffield, England, where she met the love of her life, Ron.

Marie became a certified hairdresser in England in 1953. In 1954 Marie and Ron crossed the Atlantic to Canada. After spending 2 years in Toronto, where Marie was immediately hired for her hairdressing talents, they moved to the west coast, finally settling in Eagle Harbour, West Vancouver where they proudly raised their 3 daughters. Marie loved and took pride in her role as a mother and wife. Marie’s culinary skills rivalled Julia Childs and her inner Emily Post was an important component in her daughters’ upbringing.

Marie was always impeccably dressed and had an amazing sense of fashion, so it was no surprise when she accepted a part-time position for a year, assisting one of her dear friends and dress designer, Mr. Gilbert, which she thoroughly enjoyed.

Marie’s hobby was theatre. She sang with the North Shore Light Opera as well as the VOA. Marie was largely known for her involvement with TUTS (Theatre Under The Stars). In 1969 Marie and Ron, along with a dedicated group of theatre lovers and performers, resurrected Theatre in the Park (later renamed TUTS). While Marie spent time on stage and acted in many locally filmed television shows and movies, she was mostly active behind the scenes as an assistant to the director, production manager or any position to help make a stage production the best it could be. Marie also loved to dance - ballet, jazz, ballroom and especially tap. Marie had a huge theatre family who loved her as much as she loved them. Theatre was truly her life’s passion.

Marie and Ron loved cruising. They travelled to many parts of the world. Marie was very social and would likely be found at the martini bar having a good laugh with new found friends. She had a great sense of humour and people were drawn to her fun and bubbly personality.

Marie was an adored wife, mother, Nana and Great grandmother (Gigi). Predeceased by her parents, Hilda and William Wales, and brother Dennis of Sheffield, Yorkshire, England. Marie will be sadly missed by her husband Ron of 70 years, daughters Jane (Rob), Gillian (Mark) and Mandy. Grandchildren Ashley (Derek), Jessica, (Mat), Ryan (Caitlin), Michael, Kayla (Eric), Casey, Myles (Amanda), Spencer (Mikaela) and Tia and great grandchildren, Nyah, Koston, Madden, Wyatt, Winston, Hazel and Peyton.

Mum never left the house without her ‘face on’, her hair done or a clean pair of knickers.

She will be our most glamorous angel in heaven with a wine glass in hand and a crossword in the other. Marie loved to say, “You’re never fully dressed without a smile.” Her sense of humour was never lost.

All aboard for your last sail, Mum. Cheers to you!

You will forever live in our hearts.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.firstmemorialnorthvancouver.com for the Kassell family.