Hazel Richards

Hazel Richards, 91, of Calamus, Iowa, passed away peacefully Friday, August 19, 2022, at Wheatland Manor.

Hazel was born December 17, 1930, to Edgar and Laura (Odson) Bennett in rural Adams County, Iowa.  After graduating from Corning High School, she received her normal training certificate at the age of 17 and taught school for five years. Hazel married W. Edward Richards on November 8, 1953, at Strand Lutheran Church, in rural Adams Co. The couple resided in Adams Co. where they raised their 3 children. Hazel worked as an office assistant for the local doctor and the National Farmers Organization, and as dispatcher for Adams Co. In 1994, they moved to Calamus to be near family. Edward preceded her in death on November 11, 1995.

Hazel was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Calamus. She enjoyed quilting, cooking for large gatherings, puzzles, playing cards, and reading. She was famous for her potato salad. Each of Hazel’s children and grandchildren were grateful for the hand-made quilts they received from her.

She is survived by her children, Allen (Kristy) Richards of Calamus, Betty (Larry) Gilmore of Waterville, Minnesota, and Carl (Rhonda) of Calamus; 12 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren, and one on the way; a brother-in-law, Don Walter of Corning; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her siblings, twins Laura and Elizabeth, Victor, Sonja, and CarmaNeta, a grandson, Christopher, a daughter-in-law, Cathy, son-in-law, Randy, and sister-in-law, Wanda.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, August 25, 2022, at Faith Lutheran Church, Calamus, with visitation one hour prior. Pastor Leah Holloway-Nilsen officiating. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery, Calamus.

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