Hazel Fleck, 95, passed away peacefully on 9/7 surrounded by family. Born in Jamesport, Missouri to Leslie and Opal Langford, she was the youngest of four children: Mary Katherine Miller (deceased*), Ralph Langford* (Bettie) and Nila Myrl Campbell* (Jerry*). She attended Park College and graduated with an associates degree. In 1950 she married Richard (Dick) Fleck, a marriage that would last 55 years until Dick’s death in 2005. Of this union were 4 children: Janice Davis (David), Freda Fleck*, Steve Fleck* and Joann Treece (Robert). Hazel’s pride and joy were her grandchildren and great grandchildren: Steven Slocum and daughters Lily and Khloe, Kyle Fleck (Hannah) and sons Bennett and Carter, David Treece (Emily) and Rachel Treece. Hazel also enjoyed step-grandchildren: Zachary Treece (Charice) and son John, Josh Davis (Ashley) and his daughters Jade and Nova, and Jessica Lyall.
Hazel was a homemaker until she became an empty-nester at which time she went to work for Cole Harford in North Kansas City where she retired along with her sister Nila.
In 1958 Hazel and Dick joined Northminster Presbyterian Church where she remained a member until her death. Northminster and its members became extended family and a beloved commitment where she found support, friendship, and an outlet for her desire to further her faith and do good works. Faith and a duty to service led Hazel to become immersed in many church committees, bell choir, Women’s circle and serve as Elder and Deacon. That same duty to service steered Hazel to volunteer at the County Coat Closet, volunteer for Vacation Bible School, sew or crochet baby blankets, make backpacks, isolette covers for babies in the neonatal unit at KU Medical Center and much more. She was always one of the first to volunteer a ride, make a phone call, send a card, bring food or help any way she could.
Milton once said, “there was grace in her steps, heaven in her eye, and in every gesture dignity and love”. After extended health challenges, Hazel set an example of positivity, fortitude and the importance of smiling through adversity. Rest well, Hazel. You are home.
Visitation 9/14, 10:00 a.m., funeral at 11:30, Northminster Presbyterian Church, 1441 NE Englewood Rd., Kansas City. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donation to the church, or to Heifer International through the church.
