Hazel L. Reale

May 23, 1942 – August 20, 2025

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the peaceful passing of Hazel L. Reale, who left this world on August 20, 2025, surrounded by the family she treasured above all else.

Born on May 23, 1942, in New Hyde Park, NY, Hazel was the beloved daughter of Harry and Augusta Hopke, who instilled in her a heart full of kindness and a spirit of unwavering love. For 83 wonderful years, Hazel brightened every life she touched with her gentle smile, compassionate soul, and boundless generosity.

She was the devoted wife of Orlando S. Reale, with whom she shared an extraordinary 64 years of marriage filled with laughter, adventure, and unshakable devotion. Together, they built a life rich in love, faith, and cherished memories. Hazel’s greatest joys were found in her family. She was the loving mother of John Reale (Jeanine), and the dearly missed mother of Ronald Reale (Renee) and Timothy Reale, who remain forever in their mother’s heart. She was a treasured grandmother to Angela, Matthew, Allison, Johnny, and Anthony—her pride and joy—and a doting great-grandmother to Layla and Giuliana, who brought her endless delight. She was predeceased by her dear brother, Theodore Hopke, who shared a special bond with her and is fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Hazel’s heart belonged to the children she cared for so tenderly. At St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, she found her calling as an altar girl, a devoted Bible study member, and a nurturing nursery school teacher. She believed in the goodness of people and had an uncanny ability to see the light in everyone, always extending a helping hand to those in need. Hazel’s love was a sanctuary—a safe place where anyone could find comfort, hope, and kindness.

Her beautiful spirit was reflected in the music she played on the piano, filling her home with uplifting Christian melodies that echoed her faith and joy. Hazel’s competitive spirit shone on the golf course, where she proudly achieved two hole-in-ones, much to the playful rivalry with her husband. Her kitchen was her kingdom, where she lovingly prepared hearty Italian and German meals that brought family and friends together, warming not just their bodies but their hearts.

She was the soul of every gathering—social, warm, and endlessly thoughtful. She loved bringing people together, hosting joyful celebrations and even playing matchmaker on occasion, spreading love in every form. Traveling the world with Orlando was a shared passion—they explored Europe and the Caribbean hand in hand, collecting memories that lasted a lifetime and they cherished their tradition of Christmas caroling both in New York and Florida, spreading Christmas Cheer.

Hazel Reale was more than a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother—she was the heart of her family, a beacon of love, compassion, and joy. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth and spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Family, friends, and all whose lives Hazel touched are invited to celebrate her life at a visitation on Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 2 to 6 PM at Arthur F. White Funeral Home, 315 Conklin Street, Farmingdale, New York.