Hazel Crago (Powell) passed away peacefully on Monday April 12, 2021 at Lakeridge Health Centre, Bowmanville in her 95th year. Her passing will be a sad loss for her last surviving sibling Russell, his wife Maureen and her sister-in-law Bertha Powell. Also left to mourn her loss will be the entire Crago family. She will be fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, their families and her god daughter Julie.
Hazel Elizabeth Powell was born at the family farm outside Newcastle on October 1, 1926. She was the fourth child of Samuel and Marjorie’s eight children. Her siblings were Floyd, Maurice, Donald, Ronald, Dorrene, Russell and Elaine. She was educated at Lake Shore Public School, Newcastle High School and Bowmanville High.
After finishing high school and recuperating from Scarlet Fever, she went to Toronto and worked as a long-distance operator for Bell. Hazel remembered being on the switchboard on June 6, 1943, D-day. She then went on to take teaching courses and received her certificate August 15, 1944. Hazel taught elementary school at Port Granby, Lake Shore, Anticoch and Newcastle.
Hazel married Jack Crago on July 23, 1949 and they spent almost 55 years together until Jack’s passing in 2004. After their marriage, the couple took up residence in Newcastle. In 1954 they bought property on Beaver St. and built their home. Hazel spent her life here until her health forced her to a senior’s residence in Bowmanville.
Hazel, Jack and his brother Ron got their hairdressing certificates in Toronto before starting a Beauty Shop in their home. Hazel did not live an idle life and contributed much to the betterment of her community. Hazel was an active member of the Newcastle United Church where she was board secretary for 23 years. She also enjoyed being a member of the Newcastle Historical Society which spurred her to write a little book titled ‘Life at Lake Shore School’. Hazel went on to write 2 more books, ‘Family Trees and Tales’ and the ‘Powell Family History’. She also contributed her writing talents to the Newcastle Independent column in the Canadian Statesman newspaper for many years. Hazel was a long-time member of the Horticulture Society. Hazel won many prizes including having her name engraved on the Silver Cup more than once. Her handy crafts and penmanship also won many awards in the Orono and Port Hope Fairs. She was a long-time member of the Pioneer Button Club. Her Aunt Marie Gartshore was one of the founding members and got her interested in buttons.
After losing Jack, Hazel was lucky enough to find Tom Sunley who became a dear friend and companion for 10 years.
Due to COVID, we are in the process of organizing a zoom online service with the minister of Newcastle United Church. Check with Newcastle Funeral Home for further details. Donations in her memory can be made to Newcastle United Church, Alzheimer’s Society or a charity of your choice.
Hazel’s family, friends and community have lost a wonderful lady. We will miss you.
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Monday April 12th 2021
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Hazel Crago Monday April 12th 2021..
Décès pour la Ville:Newcastle, Province: Ontario