— from Kathleen Lunde —

Hazel June Andrews O’Brien died peacefully on September 2, at her home on Orcas Island with a book in her lap and her dog Bellis by her side.

Hazel was born June 23, 1934 in the village of Motspur Park, Sussex, England, the youngest of 3 sisters, daughters of Albert and Ada Andrews.  She is survived by sister Beryl Morley, nieces Phillipa Hewett, Helen Hill and great niece Alexandra Hewett. She was preceded in death by her husband Tom in 2005 and sister Joyce Pope in 2013.

Hazel was a remarkable plantswoman who readily shared her knowledge, enthusiasm, and plants with others.  She was also a bread baker who studied her art carefully and delighted her friends with gifts of bread and muffins full of nourishing grains, and, of course, a cup of tea.  Hazel was an excellent knitter and had lately been making beautiful, warm cowels to give to her friends.

Although Hazel has many friends on the island and was loved and admired by many people, she specifically asked that there be no memorial service.  Donations in Hazel’s name can be made to the Orcas Island APS, the Orcas Public Library and to the Orcas Family Health Center. 

Hazel and her beautiful smile will be greatly missed.

**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**