Hazel was a ray of sunshine in this world who preferred skipping to walking. She was a natural performer and a joyful dancer who lit up every stage she stood on.
She lit up every stage
Put on music and Hazel would dance. Give her an audience and she would perform. She moved through the world like it was hers to delight in — and somehow it became a little brighter because she did.
She was writing her own books
A budding young author, Hazel was already writing her own chapter books — page after page of stories spilling out of a not-quite-eight-year-old imagination.
Hop Hop went everywhere
She loved playing with dolls, and rarely went anywhere without her trusted bunny stuffie, Hop Hop. He was a constant companion — along for every adventure, every fort, every performance.
Forts, costumes, and recycle-bin creations
Hazel sought out creativity and adventure in all forms — building and decorating elaborate forts, dressing up and role-playing, and crafting imaginative creations out of the recycle bin. There was always something being made.
Endless laughter, with Ivy and Ruby
One of her greatest delights in life was potty humor — a joy she shared wholeheartedly with her sisters, Ivy and Ruby, and one that filled their home with endless laughter. Ivy is her twin; Ruby is her little sister. The three of them were a world of their own.
A heart full of faith
Even at her young age, Hazel carried a deep faith in God that shone through in the way she loved others. She was constantly surrounded by friends who were drawn to her joyful spirit, her bright smile, her enveloping hugs, and her contagious laughter.
Those two days
On Friday, May 22, 2026, at about 5:15pm, Hazel was outside with family nearby, playfully tracking a stream of water down the sidewalk in front of her home, when she was struck by a car backing out of the driveway next door. After a courageous first response from her parents, she was life-flighted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where an incredible trauma team fought relentlessly for two days.
Though the outcome was not the miracle prayed for, those two days were softened by hope, tender moments of faith, small mercies, and a deep, given peace. Her family is grateful for the extraordinary care she received, and for the time they were given to gather together, encircle her in love, and say goodbye.
“May we all take a moment to slow down, look around, and cherish the precious lives around us each day.”