Douglas (Doug) Edward Hazelton was born April 27, 1937 in Sanger, California and was called home to be with his heavenly father Saturday May 20, 2023 surrounded by family after battling Parkinson's disease. Doug is preceded in death by his parents Ed and Millie Hazelton. He is survived by his wife Norma Hazelton; his daughters Cheryl Daniel (Tim), Dianna Hines (David), Janet Gardner (Keith) and sister Jean Casey. Additionally, he leaves behind his beloved grandchildren Douglas Daniel (Jennifer), Frank Daniel (Britney), Nancy Bishel (Brad), John Gardner (Lauren), Joanie Riddle (Scott), Katie Verwey (Johnny), Bobby Hines (Alison) and 21 great grandchildren with one more on the way.
Doug was a 5th generation citrus farmer growing up on the family farm in Sanger, California, attending Sanger High School and working the family ranches. After school, Doug married the love of his life, Norma Cooper, enjoying 68 years together. While raising his family, Doug continued to work the family farms while also starting his own citrus spraying business and farming land on the west side of the valley for 2 years with his lifelong friend Mike Dresica. Having learned many life lessons from the generations before him, he placed great importance on leading his family well and leaving a lasting impact for the next generation. As a Director of Orange Cove Sanger Citrus and eventually as the founder of Kings River Packing in 1977 with the help of his wife and children, Doug continued the Hazelton legacy in the citrus industry started by William (Yank) Hazelton who planted the first citrus trees in Fresno County. Recently Doug and Norma were recognized by the City of Sanger as the 2018 Farmers of the Year, an honor that recognizes their impact on the community.
While his accomplishments are many, Doug's favorite verse was "The joy of the Lord is my strength" Nehemiah 8:10. His love for God, Church and having a relationship with Jesus was very important in his life and one of the biggest joys for him was his family, where he loved spending time with his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. From trips together in Cayucos, Huntington Lake or Shaver Lake, to fishing on the Rogue River in Oregon, taking time to spend with his family outdoors and making memories were some of his favorite things to do.
A Church Service for Doug will be held Thursday, June 1, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Mountain View Community Church, 3600 North Fowler Avenue, Fresno, California 93727.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Doug's name to Mountain View Missions, 3600 North Fowler Avenue, Fresno, California 93727, Central Valley Teen Challenge, P.O. Box 391, Reedley, California 93654 or Kings Corner School, 21494 East Trimmer Springs Road, Sanger, California 93657.
Serving as Pallbearers are Douglas Daniel, Frank Daniel, Bobby Hines, Scott Riddle, Johnny Verwey, John Gardner, and Brad Bishel.
Serving as Honorary Pallbearers are Mike and Jan Dresick, Bob and Joan Hines, Dan and Joye Forbes, Octavio and Maria Rios, and Ronny and Maxine Olson.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.boicefuneralhome.com for the Hazelton family.
