Hazel Ruth Kuszmaul

died March 15, 2017

Hazel Ruth Kuszmaul, 96, died Wednesday, March 15, 2017, at her home. She passed in peace and serenity surrounded by family and was welcomed into the presence of the Lord, her family said.

Hazel moved to Homer in 2015 with her daughter Marcia and son-in-law Mannfried Funk, operators of Juneberry Lodge bed and breakfast. She became known in the community for her gentle spirit, good humor and sweet smile.

Over the past year, she was blessed by the loving care of a team of local caregivers, Hospice of Homer volunteers and staff, South Peninsula Hospital medical staff and Home Health services, Homer Medical Center staff, and her neighbors.

Born and raised in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains in Catons Grove, Tenn., she was one of 11 children born to the late James H. and Nancy Presnell Bell. From humble beginnings she became valedictorian of her high school class, a graduate of Baylor University, and a teacher in Tennessee and Baltimore City Schools.

Hazel inspired all who knew her to do their best and to believe that any goal they chose was within their grasp. She was industrious, always with a project at hand, and enjoyed reading, sewing and handwork of all kinds, gardening, canning, and baking.

She was preceded in death by her college sweetheart and husband of 68 years, Charles Kuszmaul, and four brothers and five sisters. She is survived by three daughters, six grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and a brother who will be 100 years old in April.

Funeral services will be March 24, 2017, in Pennsylvania with burial following in Maryland. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Homer (hospiceofhomer.org).

Arrangements were made by Homer Funeral Home. Please visit or sign her online guestbook at AlaskanFuneral.com.