William Clyde Hazel

William Clyde Hazel, 97, lifelong resident of Show Low AZ passed away Sunday, November 28, 2021 in the early hours at home with family. Bill was born September 7, 1924, in Kentucky to the late Charles J. Hazel and Abby E. Dempsey. He lived a modest young life and at the young age of 13, he met his first love, the late Loraine Smith. Soon after he moved away from the country to the city of Chicago, Illinois. It was there he decided to join the Army, then the National Guard during WWII to serve his country. He loved his country. He and Loraine married in the meantime. When Bill returned from serving his country, they moved to Arizona. This is where he found his second love, the fire department. He worked his way up from being a fireman to being a fire chief, all while going to college, being a husband, and a father. Here is where he found a Brotherhood amongst the men. His list of accomplishments also includes trying out for the Cincinnati Braves to graduating from Flight School. He loved to play golf and travel with their three children, Judi, Billy, and Joe. Their favorite destination was Show Low AZ and this was where he found a home. Once retired he and his wife moved to Show Low, almost 40 years ago. He loved the land and he respected it. Over the years he's had many fur babies of all kinds and each and every one of them had a special place in his heart. He worked part time for the White Mountain Passenger Line and delivered rural mail. He learned a lot about the local natives and grew a stronger sense of 'neighborly' love. Bill was a tough but fair man. He was legal and kind. He would drop everything to be there for a friend. He is survived by his children, Judith A. Hukill, William C. Hazel Jr.and Joseph M. Hazel; grandchildren, Duane L. Hukill and wife LuAnne, Donald R. Hukill, Daryl N. Hukill and wife Lisa, Christopher S. Hazel, and wife Lauren, Clarise Hazel and Michaeline Hazel; & great-great grandchildren, Fallon R. Hazel, Colter W. Hazel, Robert E. Pelletier, and Blaze C. Johnson. Funeral services will be Thursday, December 16th at 11:00 am, at Owens Livingston Mortuary in Show Low, 320 N. 9th St., with a viewing one-hour prior. Burial will follow at Show Low Cemetery with Military and Masonic Honors.