Hazel Mae Anderson

NASELLE — Hazel Mae Anderson, 86, passed away peacefully in her home in Naselle, Washington, on Oct. 4, 2024. She was born on Sept. 1, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, to Selmer and Evelyn (Brooks) Olson. Hazel lived a life marked by faith, family and service to her community.

Hazel grew up in Chicago, where she graduated from Taft High School in 1956. After finishing high school, she had an office job in Chicago, and soon after that got hired by Alvin Motors, a Ford dealership, where she developed lifelong friendships and a strong work ethic that would carry her through the many roles she held in her lifetime.

In 1968, Hazel embarked on a life-changing trip to the Holy Land. It was there that she met Earl Anderson, the love of her life. A year later, on June 5, 1969, they were married, and Hazel relocated to Naselle, where they built a home and raised two children, Andrew (Andy) and Heidi.

She embraced her new community, dedicating herself to both her family and her faith, becoming an active member of her local church and generously volunteering in the community. A devoted member of her church and community, Hazel was known for her active participation and volunteer efforts.

Tragically, Hazel lost her beloved husband, Earl, in 1987. Despite this profound loss, she remained resilient. Determined to adapt to the changing times, Hazel went back to school to learn computer skills, and soon after, she secured a job at the Darigold Feed store, where she worked until her retirement. Her determination to continue learning and working after Earl’s passing was a testament to her enduring strength and tenacity.

In her later years, she divided her time between Chicago, spending months with family, and her home in Naselle, where she cherished time with her children and friends.

Hazel is survived by her son, Andy Anderson; her daughter, Heidi Anderson; her sister, Betty (John) Scharff; her brother, John (Alyce) Olson; her aunt, Jean Grandt; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, who remember her with fondness.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Selmer and Evelyn Olson; her husband, Earl Anderson; her brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Jan Olson; and her sister, Elizabeth Olson.

Hazel’s warmth, dedication to her family and community, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed.

Her funeral will be Friday, Oct. 18, at 11 a.m., at Valley Bible Church in Rosburg.

Memorial donations may be made to Valley Bible Church, 4723 State Route 4 W., Rosburg, WA 98643; or Naselle Assembly of God, P.O. Box 26, Naselle, WA 98638.

Penttila’s Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.