Helen Darlene Hazuka

Hazuka Helen Darlene, died peacefully at her home in Minnetonka on Saturday, May 25, 2002 surrounded by her loving family after a courageous 9-month battle with cancer. She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Donald; children: Michael (Lisa) Hazuka, Sarah Hazuka, Christopher Hazuka, Shannon (and husband Shannon) Burns, and Stacy Hazuka; 6 grandchildren, Matthew & Ryan Hazuka, Garrett, Brandon, Dylan & Riley Burns and a very special friend to whom Darlene was a ``second mom'', Ted Cory. She is also survived by her brother Bill (Carol) Lawler; sister, Marge (Rayburn) Orsten; and many nieces and nephews. Her parents preceded her in death. Darlene was born September 28, 1937 to Willis and Helen (Lottie) Lawler at their home in Willmar, MN. She was baptized and attended St. Mary's Church in Willmar. Darlene graduated from Willmar Public School in 1955 and from St. Cloud State University in 1959 with a degree in elementary education. Darlene taught school in Milwaukee, Wayzata and Hopkins. On September 26, 1959, Darlene married Donald Hazuka. After the birth of their first child, Darlene became a full-time mother and devoted her life to her husband, children and grandchildren. Darlene enjoyed cooking and baking and prepared many specialties her family enjoyed. She loved being with her grandchildren. Darlene & Don were avid spectators at their grandchildren's hockey, baseball and school functions. Darlene had a special interest in genealogy and she and her brother, Bill, spent many hours together researching their roots and compiling many books with information to preserve for their children. A special thanks to Mary Jo and the hospice staff at Methodist Hospital for all of their support. Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday 10:00 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church 1310 Mainstreet, Hopkins. Visitation Tuesday 4-8 pm at the Washburn-McReavy Strobeck Johnson Chapel 1400 Mainstreet, Hopkins. Entombment, Gethsemane Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, please direct your memorials in her name to Methodist Hospital Hospice. Washburn-McReavy Strobeck Johnson 952-938-9020

Published on May 27, 2002