Hazel C. Smith, 98, Minot, died Wednesday, August 5, 2015, in a Minot nursing home.

Hazel was born January 19, 1917, in Martin, ND to Peter and Emma (Kegel) Finneman. She was reared and educated in the Martin area during her youth.

Hazel was united in marriage to Chester A. Smith on December 19, 1938, in Minot, ND. They made their home in Minot. Hazel was a devoted wife during Chester's service to his country during WWII and during his time with Burlington Northern Railroad. They were blessed with two children, Chester Jr. and Susan, whom Hazel provided a loving home during their youth.

Chester Sr. died in 1968 following a battle with cancer. Hazel remained part of the Minot community. She gained employment at St. Joseph's Hospital working as a nurses aide for many years until she transferred to central supply of the hospital working until her retirement.

Hazel was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, where she was active in church circles and Lutheran Women's Missionary League. She was also a member of the Burlington Northern Train Ladies Association. She loved and enjoyed embroidery work. Hazel collected figurines of all types and was often found reading in her spare time. She was a whiz at crossword puzzles and was adored by her grandchildren. She will be missed by all who shared in her life.

Hazel is survived by her son, Chester (Mary) Smith, Jr., Minot and daughter, Susan Hill, Choctaw, OK; grandchildren, Jennifer (Christopher) Claerbout, Minot, ND and Sara (Nathan) Wanzek, San Francisco, CA; great-grandchildren, Amelia and Evelyn Claerbout and Adler Wanzek; sister, Darlene Shaw of Missouri and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Hazel was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Chester Sr. and siblings, Fred, Elmer, Lester, Ethel, Margaret, Helen, LeRoy, Ruben and Laurene.

Graveside Service: 9:00 a.m. Thursday, August 20, 2015 at Rosehill Memorial Park officiated by Reverend Arie Bertsch.
Visitation: Wednesday, August 19, 2015, from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Memorials are preferred to an organization of the donor's choice.