Joseph Thomas Hazard

Joseph Thomas Hazard, age 87, of Kalamazoo, passed away at home February 9, 2018. He was born in Kalamazoo on May 9, 1930 to the late Thomas and Flora (Ouellette) Hazard. Joe is survived by his loving wife, Loraine (Muller) Hazard, eight children, Theresa, Joe (Julia), Mark, Michelle, Tim (Carla), Mike (Lisa), Virginia (Steve) Kuehl and Randy (Theresa), 19 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, siblings, Anne (Richard) Anson, Alice (Richard) Prince, Msgr. Michael Hazard, along with many nieces and nephews. Joe is preceded in death by his first wife, Norma, his brother Vern, sister Cathy Bertholet and his great grandson Sammy Hazard. Joe served his country in active combat during the Korean War in the Army, he was self-employed for many years, operating the Beaver Tree Service from 1982 until 1988 when he sold the business to his son. He then operated Joe’s Stump Service until retirement in 2005. Joe was a longtime parishioner at Saint John Bosco Parish and a 4TH Degree Knight of Columbus with Council 13251 Saint John Bosco. He was an avid bowler and carried a high average with both hands. What was most near and dear to Joe’s heart was spending time with his family and outdoor activities. A true “Man’s Man” Joe loved fishing and woodworking projects. Joe had a soft side as well; he was very generous and dedicated to supplying groceries to the poor, something he did for many years.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 14, 2018 beginning at 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 West Michigan Ave, Paw Paw, where a Rosary service will commence at 5:00 p.m. Mass of Christian burial will follow on Thursday at 11:00 a.m. at Saint John Bosco Catholic Church, 23830 Front Ave, Mattawan, with Msgr. Michael Hazard and Fr. Alan Jorgensen officiating. There will be a luncheon to follow in the church hall. Joe will be laid to rest with Military honors on Friday at 11:00 a.m. at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family request those planning a memorial contribution to consider a donation to help provide Thanksgiving Dinners to veterans, checks made payable to Mark Hazard. Memorials may also be directed to Saint John Bosco Church or to Reverence Hospice.