Hazel Ruth Davis

Hazel Ruth Davis

1928 - 2019

Hazel Ruth Casparis was born February 7, 1928 and passed away July 15, 2019. A native of Taft, Hazel lived most of her life in town, only moving to the Los Angeles area in her later years to be near her daughter, Joan. 

At the age of 19, Hazel married fellow Taft native Charles Davis. Their union lasted 36 happy years until Charles's untimely death. Never one to slow down, Hazel remained active in the community as a volunteer at Taft's West Side District Hospital, Alpha House Women's Shelter, and many other worthy causes… a tradition of service that began as a teen during World War II when she helped tend the family Victory Garden and fold bandages for the Red Cross. 

Beyond her volunteer work and family, Hazel's other great love was traveling with her husband. As a child of the Great Depression, money was tight, but Hazel's library card provided books and National Geographic magazines that filled her with a lifelong curiosity about the world. After the passing of Charles, Hazel continued to explore for many years, visiting destinations including New Zealand, Kenya, and China—where she finally lived a childhood dream of walking on the Great Wall. 

When thinking back on her life and travels, Hazel would often comment, "I've been very lucky." So was anyone who knew her. 

Hazel is survived by her daughter Joan Doner (husband Doug), her grandson Matthew Staroscik (wife Jen), and many nieces and nephews and their families.

There will be a graveside ceremony to remember Hazel at the West Side District Cemetery on Monday, July 22 at 11AM. In lieu of flowers, Hazel would appreciate any well-wishers making a donation to a worthy cause. 

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