Hazel Stover, 83, died peacefully at her home in Orange on January 23, 2019. She was born on September 6, 1935, to Emma Jensen Stover and Karl James Stover, Sr. in Sheridan, Wyoming. The family moved to California within two years, settling in Orange by her third year.
Hazel attended elementary school in Orange and graduated from Orange High School in 1953, Orange Coast Community College in 1955, and San Jose State College in 1957. She began her teaching career at Clear Lake High School in 1957 and returned to Orange to teach mostly history at her alma mater from 1960-1991. Her Master’s Degree was earned from Pepperdine in 1973.
Hazel was an extraordinary teacher. She knew her subject matter thoroughly, taught it well, and cared about her students, guiding and encouraging them to reach their potentials. Her love of history was life-long, and she continued to pass along historical facts to people throughout her life.
Early in her career, Hazel became involved in the teachers’ union in Orange (OUEA). She would remain a leader in union work her entire life and was known as a fierce advocate for public education. She served OUEA as Bargaining Team Spokesperson from 1965-1991. She was known as a powerful force at the bargaining table. She served as OUEA president twice, 1966-1968 and 1988-1991. Hazel participated in all Orange Unified school board elections from 1965-1991. At the state level, Hazel attended all State Council meetings from 1965-1991, served on the CTA Board of Directors from 1978-1990, worked on statewide elections and legislation from 1970-2005. Hazel served a prominent role in CTA’s campaign to secure collective bargaining rights for teachers in 1975. At the national level, Hazel participated at every annual NEA Convention from 1970-1991. She was a member of the Board of the National Council of Urban Education Associations from 1972-1976 and served as president from 1976-1978. In 1978 Hazel attended the White House Conference on the Panama Canal Treaty and the United Nations briefing on North South Relations.
Hazel left the classroom in 1991 to join the California Teachers Association staff as a Political Consultant. She was well-suited for her new career. She worked tirelessly on elections and conducted numerous workshops and trainings to share her vast knowledge of politics.
Hazel retired from CTA in 2005 and became active in her church and the Woman’s Club of Orange. She served in many leadership roles including president of the Woman’s Club from 2011-2013 and church Moderator from 2014-2016.
Hazel excelled at both her callings – as teacher and leader. She was respected and admired by those with whom she worked for her intelligence, competence, integrity, dedication, and keen sense of humor.
Despite many years of ill health, Hazel maintained a positive outlook, taking each day as a gift.
Hazel’s two brothers, Karl Jr. and Calvin, predeceased her. She is survived by her partner of 27 years, Suzanne, and many nieces and cousins.
The date of a Celebration of Life is TBD.
Memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church of Orange, 1130 E. Walnut Ave, CA 92867, (714) 538-9681.
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