Rita Hendrika Hazard

Rita was born January 18, 1922 in Maarn Netherlands, the daughter of Willem and Florda Donkern. She shared her stories with us about growing up and how life was lived during that time. Rita came to the United States in 1950. Living in a new country and not speaking English was difficult. Over time she adapted and began enjoying American life.

Rita met Joseph Hazard. They married in June of 1954. They enjoyed 50 years together in a loving marriage.

Rita retired after 35 years from Lakeshore Tavern. She was well respected and made many friends.

Rita loved to be active. She had great days enjoying her times at the McGraft Senior Center. She joined the local YMCA for pool exercises. After exercising she enjoyed the weekly lunches the ladies planned. Joe and Rita played BINGO and golf for many years. This was their leisure times and they looked forward to these activities together.

Family meant everything to Rita. Our many family gatherings were special times for all of us. She loved watching her grandchildren participate in their sporting activities. Rita herself was a big Detroit Pistons fan. She never gave up on them. She liked watching the games with her family.

Rita was a member of the First Congregational Church in Fruitport. She looked forward to worshipping with God’s people. Her church family was special to her. She took her relationship with the Lord very seriously. She was a loving mother, caring and generous woman who will be deeply missed.

Rita is survived by: her children, Michael Hazard, Raymond (Corky) VanDerHoeven, Herbert VanDerHoeven, Carrie (Gary) Dill, Stanley (Nichole) Hazard, and; 7 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by: her husband Joseph Hazard; son, Donald Hazard; grandson, Michael Joseph Hazard Jr.; great-grandson, Michael Joseph Hazard III; her parents, and 11 siblings.

A Memorial Service will take place at 12:00 PM on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at First Congregational Church of Fruitport 3212 E Pontaluna Road. Visitation will take place 1 hour prior to the start of the service.