Gary W. Hazell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary W. Hazell, a beloved husband, uncle, and friend, whose life was marked by adventure, service, and an entrepreneurial spirit.

Gary was born on November 27, 1942, in Vancouver, BC, to Ray and Grace Hazell. He attended Vancouver Technical School and later BCIT, launching a successful career in electronic equipment sales—a field where his passion for technology, especially stereo equipment, made him a legend among family and friends.

In April 1966, Gary married Donna Carden in Vancouver. Together, they made their home in Port Coquitlam, where Gary and Donna's love of entertaining made their house a favorite gathering spot. In the early 1980s, Gary and Donna moved to the Shuswap, purchasing a home on Shuswap Lake. Over the years, they lovingly renovated the property, transforming it into a cherished hub for parties, summer vacations, house boating and camping adventures. Gary and Donna did not have children, but their home was always full of love thanks to several cherished cocker spaniels over the years. Their last two beloved companions, Sandy and Topper, were especially dear to them and brought much joy to their lives.

Gary was driven by a self-reliant spirit and always eager to teach his nieces and nephews what he knew. He showed them how to water ski on Osoyoos Lake, snow ski at Big White, and drive a stick shift—lessons delivered with determination and a drive to share his skills.

After retiring, Gary and Donna moved into Salmon Arm, but Gary's zest for life never waned. He enjoyed wintering in the southern US, embarked on an epic trip to Africa, and spent many happy hours on road trips in their Miata. Gary dedicated himself to extensive community service. A long-time member of the Salmon Arm Model Railway Club and the Salmon Arm Rotary Club, Gary was recognized for his outstanding contributions to his community and was awarded the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow for his distinguished service as a Rotarian.

Gary was predeceased by his father, Ray; his mother, Grace; father-in-law Wally Carden; mother-in-law Monica Carden; and his brother-in-law, Alf Schaffrick. He is survived by his devoted wife, Donna; sister-in-law, Jill Schaffrick; niece Sheri Hamilton (Vic) and their children, Sophie and Fynn; niece Sue Schaffrick and her son, Travis; nephews Steve Schaffrick and Scott Schaffrick (Joanne), and Scott and Joanne's children, Jackson and Ryder; as well as close family friends Kim Radcliffe-Leroux (Scott) and their children, Tavis, Jaxson, and Lexi; and Pam Radcliffe (Thy). Special thanks to Lori Hawrys for her exceptional compassion and support.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 5 from 1-3pm at the United Church in Salmon Arm. Light snacks served. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Alzheimer's Society or the SPCA.