Hazel Elizabeth Vermette-Copeland

She will be deeply missed by her partner of 26 years, Roy Copeland; her children Jennifer Garcia (née Vermette) and Brent Vermette; her son-in-law, Deone Garcia; her daughter-in-law, Haejin Kim; and Brent’s fiancée, Rochelle Datinguinoo. Hazel is also lovingly remembered by Roy’s children, Stephen Copeland (Karen) and Lisa Ruddell (née Copeland). She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Adan Garcia, Anya Garcia, Brayden Vermette, Brennan Ruddell, Lachlan Ruddell, Georgia Ruddell, Courtney Copeland, and Kyle Copeland. Hazel is survived by her siblings, Arlene Croteau, Wilma McRae (Ron), and her twin sister, Muriel McPhail (Kirk). Hazel is also remembered by her former husband, Laurence “Peewee” Vermette, sister-in-law, Lynn Mickalko and brother-in-law, Bob Vandermolen.

She will also be fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Hazel is predeceased by her parents, John Dauncey Sr. and Margaret “Nellie” Dauncey, as well as her brother, John Dauncey Jr.

Hazel was a true homemaker, happiest when in the comfort of her home and surrounded by the people she loved. When she and Roy added an inground pool to their home in 2011, it quickly became a gathering place where Hazel loved hosting family and friends, particularly her grandchildren and her great-nieces and great-nephews.

During her early family years, Hazel enjoyed time at the ball fields, soccer pitches, and weekends spent camping in and around the Valley. As Jennifer and Brent grew older, Hazel began to work outside of the home. She was employed at K-Mart for several years, where she met many good friends through her work. In 1992, she and her sister-in-law Lynn opened up The Swale Rock Cafe. Later in Hazel’s working years, she served at The West Wind Pub, where she met Roy.

Roy and Hazel spent many spectacular years together playing cards, enjoying their backyard oasis, and watching sports poolside while sipping a cold mug of beer. Outside of their comfortable home, they met regularly with special friends Tom and Helen Irving for cards and entertainment. Helen often joined Hazel at the casino to spend time on their favourite slot machines. Hazel and Roy also valued their regular Friday meet-up with Roy’s flying tanker crew from The Bomber Base at Pastime’s Sports Bar. Roy’s work with Coulson’s Flying Tankers on the Martin Mars provided Hazel with the opportunity to accompany Roy and the crew during their detachments to California. Lake Elsinore and Lake Shasta were highlights. During this time, Hazel employed her “homemaker” skills and helped support the crew while they fought fires. Aside from work-related travel, Hazel and Roy vacationed to the Dominican Republic and cruised along the Mexican Riviera with Tom and Helen.

Roy fulfilled Hazel’s request to pass at their home, which she loved so much, surrounded by her feline companions, Fluffy and Simon. He lovingly cared for her for many years right through to her last day. He provided her with peace, dignity, and comfort.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date and will be announced by the family in the New Year.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alberni Valley Hospice Society.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the palliative care team, nurse Krissy Gomez, physicians Dr. Woodley, Dr. Johnsen, and Dr. Williams as well as the numerous care aides who worked alongside Roy to keep her comfortable.