On March 20, 2021, at Good Shepherd Hospice, Thomas J. Hazer, Sr., 77, of Lakeland, passed away, surrounded by family. He was born in Joliet, IL on May 3, 1943, to the late James and Frances (Widlowski) Hazer. Tom fought a courageous battle against cancer setting an example for others to live life to the fullest and enjoy every moment.
He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Dorothy “Bunny” (Bingham) Hazer. She was the love of his life, his soulmate, and the two were a loving devoted couple; 3 children who all reside in Florida, daughter, Lori & Mark Walsh; daughter, Melissa & Shawn Finley; son, Thomas & Jami Hazer: 9 grandchildren - Justin Walsh, Tyler Walsh, Ryan Walsh, Morgan Walsh, Olivia Finley, Caleb Finely, Ava Hazer, Addison Hazer, Annabelle Hazer; sisters Mary Lou (late Edward) Drysch, Charlene & James Rogers and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother, James & Beatrice Hazer and sister Bernadine & James Caldwell.
He worked at Ecolab for 25 years and retired in 2003. Tom and Bunny then fulfilled a lifetime goal and moved to Florida. Tom worshipped at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, and enjoyed hobbies including boating, fishing, gardening and cruising. He was an avid member of the Joliet and Lakeland Harley Owners’ Group (HOG) chapters and enjoyed his many road trips and great adventures. Tom loved his family and friends very much.
Everyone enjoyed Tom’s sense of humor. He had a gift of making others laugh. Tom was a devoted and loving father to his three children and Papa to his nine grandchildren. He instilled in them a love of celebrating holidays, bargain hunting, traveling, cooking & baking, antique cars & motorcycles, watching cowboy movies and always emphasized the importance of family.
Visitation will be held at Lakeland Funeral Home, Saturday, April 3, 2021, from 2-3:30 PM. Prayers & eulogy from 3:30-4PM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared by clicking the “Tribute Wall” link.
https://www.oneroomstreaming.com/view/authorise.php?k=1616429653107035
Click here to view a webcast of the service on 4/3/2021 at 03:25 PM, Eastern Standard Time.
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