Hazel Virginia Neveu

Hazel Neveu, 81, passed away peacefully in Venice, FL on the first day of February, 2014. Hazel is survived by her husband of 53 years, Robert, and their two children, David of Washington, DC and Debbie of Los Angeles, CA. Hazel is also survived by her sister Dorothy Hawk of Atlanta, Georgia, her brothers Harold and Richard Eckart, of Richfield and Akron Ohio. Her oldest brother Lester Eckart passed away in November, in Greenville, South Carolina. Hazel was born in Copley, Ohio and grew up on a 121-acre farm with three brothers and a younger sister. Hazel was a graduate of Mount Union College and held a Bachelor of Science in Education. She was an educator, a 4H community leader, and a member of the United Methodist Church. In her earlier years, Hazel was very involved in the Summit Country 4H Club. Hazel began her 4H work in 1942 with a focus on sewing, gardening and home improvement. In 1948 she became an assistant advisor. In 1949 she created the ""Jolly Juniors"" and lead the program for nine years. Hazel won the Florence R. Smith Memorial award for outstanding achievement in 4H Club work. In the summer and fall of 1956, Hazel took part in the 4H International Farm Youth exchange program. She lived with several farm families throughout France during her four-month stay. When asked about the experience she said, ""There certainly can be no better method of really knowing and understanding our neighbors than by participating in their home and community life."" In addition to community involvement, Hazel's passion was teaching. She studied education for gifted children at the University of Hawaii. While attending classes she met her husband, Robert C. Neveu at a welcome aboard party at the Reef Hotel in 1960. They were married in 1961. Hazel was then awarded a teaching position at the prestigious Punahou School. Their son, David, was born in Honolulu in 1964. Two years later, Bob was given orders to return stateside shortly before serving a tour of duty in Vietnam. Their Daughter, Debbie was born in Alexandria, Virginia in 1966. Afterwards, the Neveu family lived in Northern Virginia for over 30 years. Hazel and Bob retired to Venice Florida in 2001. Hazel was a devout Christian and an active member of Springfield United Methodist Church for over 25 years. In 2001, she jointed Christ United Methodist Church in Venice where she was a member until her death. A loving wife, mother, and teacher; Hazel's life was a testament of her enduring devotion to her family, her faith, and her community. A memorial service to celebrate Hazel's life will be held at 11 am on Saturday, February 8th at Christ United Methodist Church in Venice. Flowers can be sent to Christ United Methodist Church, or In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Loveland Center. Michele Morley Christ United Methodist Church 1475 Center Road Venice Fl, 34292 941-493-7504 Loveland Center, Inc. 157 South Havana Road Venice Fl, 34292 941-493-0016 Service Information Date: Saturday, February 8, 2014 Time: 11:00 am Christ United Methodist Church Address: 1475 Center Road Venice, FL 34292 | Map