Hazel Gladys De Schaaf

Hazel De Schaaf, 91, of Benton Township, passed away at her home on December 6, 2007. Hazel was born in Benton Township, on March 22, 1916, the daughter of William and Hannah Gatchell. She was the fourth of seven children. Hazel grew up on a fruit farm and graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1933. On October 12, 1941, she married Otto De Schaaf, and pursued her love of vegetable and flower gardening. She also enjoyed ice skating, bowling, hiking and camping, and attending her grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. She enjoyed pleasurable moments with her husband on their swing, while observing her favorite birds and other wildlife. Above all, she enjoyed homemaking and family gatherings. Hazel is survived by her three sons, Cliff (Pat) De Schaaf of Stevensville, Gil (Ruth) De Schaaf of Benton Township, and Bruce (Gayle) De Schaaf of St. Joseph, sister Minnie Webb of Benton Harbor, and brother Bill Gatchell of Benton Township. She is also survived by seven grandchildren — Mike, Jeff, Jill, Amber, Jay, Amy and Karyn; and five great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two sisters, and two brothers. Memorial contributions may be made to Lakeland Hospice in care of Starks-Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road, Saint Joseph, Michigan, 49085. Visitation will be from 3-5 p.m., Sunday, December 9, at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held Monday, December 10 at 11:30 at the funeral home with the Reverend Shan Martin officiating.