Hazel Irene (Jackson) Bates

Hazel Irene Bates, 90 of Chetek passed away Thursday, September 8, 2016 at Dove West Care Center in Eau Claire.  She was born in Alma Center, Wisconsin April 29, 1926 the daughter of Alfred and Cecelia (Joss) Jackson.

Hazel graduated in 1944 from Chetek High School.  She continued her education for a year of nursing school at St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minnesota then completed college at Beauty Operator School.  She married Virgil L. Bates January 19, 1948 in Chetek and worked as a beautician before starting a family. Hazel loved to travel, especially bus trips.  Her favorite destination was Lambeau Field, because she was an avid Green Bay Packers fan.  She also enjoyed going to Lake Superior, where she said looking out at the water was very therapeutic for her.  Hazel was a frequent flyer of the Chetek Library, reading many, many books and keeping busy with puzzles in her spare time.  She was also an Auxiliary member of the American Legion and worked the election polls for many years.

Hazel is survived by her children Bill (Barb) Bates of St. Germain, WI, Gayle (Larry) DeBuhr of Menomonie, WI, Valerie (Roger) Omtvedt of Chetek, WI, Rosemary (Doug) Conklin of Holmen, WI, Ann (Andy) Bates-Rabideau of Downsville, WI, six grandsons (which were the apple of her eye) and four great-grandchildren.  She is preceded in death by her parents, husband and one sister Mary Eva Southworth, also survived by nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, September 17, 2016 at St. Boniface Catholic Church with Father Ed Anderson officiating.  Family and friends may gather for a visitation from 9:30 A.M. until the time of the service.  Burial will take place at Lake View Cemetery.  Please join Hazel’s family for a luncheon after the interment in the Church fellowship hall.  View and sign the online guestbook at www.burnhamours.com.

The Burnham-Ours-Kolstad Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

 Service Information