Obituary of Hazel Gertrude Latimer

None Hazel Gertrude Latimer, 96, a resident of Wenatchee for the past 66 years, died Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at Olympia Manor Adult Care facility in Olympia. She was born on March 9, 1910 to James and Bertha (Crawford) Hastings at Topeka, Kansas. She remained in Topeka during her formative years where in 1929 she married her childhood sweetheart and love of her life, Jean W. Latimer. Hazel worked as a clerk in a Topeka jewelry store while Jean was employed by the Santa Fe Railroad until they moved to Lubbock, Texas in 1930. Hazel became the homemaker for much of the next decade while Jean served as a radio and appliance technician prior to moving to Wenatchee in 1939. When Jean and then partner, Bill Wik, opened a radio-TV-and appliance store in the late 1040’s Hazel became the receptionist, bookkeeper, and overall chief cook and bottle washer for the operation. She continued her chosen duties throughout the 1950’s and ’60’s adding on more “pleasurable” tasks such as Cub Scout Den Mother, Little League Baseball mom, and “babysitter” for her cherished felines, Suzy, Fluff, Callie, and later, Peaches. Hazel loved traveling across the country on yearly summer trips with Jean and son, Jim, in the 15’ Starfire trailer. As the years went on, the trailers got bigger, mostly to accommodate her penchant for flea market activity! During her lifetime, Hazel was a past-president of the Lake Chelan Barnacle Club, and a member of the Wenatchee Fraternal Order of Eagles, Elks Lodge, and the “Lady Lions” clubs. She is survived by her son, Jim and wife Debra, of Lacey, WA; her beloved granddaughter, Robin of Sycamore, IL; her most special brother-in-law, Donald W. Monesmith of Wenatchee; and numerous nieces and nephews. Hazel was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jean; three sisters, Marie, Thelma, and Myrtle; and brothers, Clyde and Jim. Per her wishes, no formal services will be held. For those who wish, memorials may be made in Hazel’s name to the charity of your choice. Please leave memories and condolences in our guest book by clicking on the "View Guestbook" link below.