November 27, 1942 – June 22, 2025
at the age of 83 years:
A Celebration of Life will be held on July 5 from 1-3pm at the United Church in Salmon Arm. Light snacks served. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Alzheimer’s Society or the SPCA.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary W. Hazell, a beloved husband, uncle, and friend, whose life was marked by adventure, service, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
Gary was born on November 27, 1942, in Vancouver, BC, to Ray and Grace Hazell. He attended Vancouver Technical School and later BCIT, launching a successful career in electronic equipment sales—a field where his passion for technology, especially stereo equipment, made him a legend among family and friends.
In April 1966, Gary married Donna Carden in Vancouver. Together, they made their home in Port Coquitlam, where Gary and Donna’s love of entertaining made their house a favorite gathering spot. In the early 1980s, Gary and Donna moved to the Shuswap, purchasing a home on Shuswap Lake. Over the years, they lovingly renovated the property, transforming it into a cherished hub for parties, summer vacations, house boating and camping adventures. Gary and Donna did not have children, but their home was always full of love thanks to several cherished cocker spaniels over the years. Their last two beloved companions, Sandy and Topper, were especially dear to them and brought much joy to their lives.
Gary was driven by a self-reliant spirit and always eager to teach his nieces and nephews what he knew. He showed them how to water ski on Osoyoos Lake, snow ski at Big White, and drive a stick shift—lessons delivered with determination and a drive to share his skills.
After retiring, Gary and Donna moved into Salmon Arm, but Gary’s zest for life never waned. He enjoyed wintering in the southern US, embarked on an epic trip to Africa, and spent many happy hours on road trips in their Miata. Gary dedicated himself to extensive community service. A long-time member of the Salmon Arm Model Railway Club and the Salmon Arm Rotary Club, Gary was recognized for his outstanding contributions to his community and was awarded the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow for his distinguished service as a Rotarian.
Gary was predeceased by his father, Ray; his mother, Grace; father-in-law Wally Carden; mother-in-law Monica Carden; and his brother-in-law, Alf Schaffrick. He is survived by his devoted wife, Donna; sister-in-law, Jill Schaffrick; niece Sheri Hamilton (Vic) and their children, Sophie and Fynn; niece Sue Schaffrick and her son, Travis; nephews Steve Schaffrick and Scott Schaffrick (Joanne), and Scott and Joanne’s children, Jackson and Ryder; as well as close family friends Kim Radcliffe-Leroux (Scott) and their children, Tavis, Jaxson, and Lexi; and Pam Radcliffe (Thy). Special thanks to Lori Hawrys for her exceptional compassion and support.
A Celebration of Life will be held on July 5 from 1-3pm at the United Church in Salmon Arm. Light snacks served. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Alzheimer’s Society or the SPCA.
Donna, our hearts go out to you at this time of great loss. Gary was a fine gentleman with many talents and passions and he loved you and your wonderful family of fur babies beyond words!
Hold on to those wonderful memories shared in the obit to help you through the days ahead. His expertise in getting the tech support in the early days of dragon boating festivals are not forgotten!
Love to you, Cynde and Robin Russell
Very sorry to hear about Gary we were great friend for many years. Hope to see you in July.
Dear Donna,
I am very sad to hear of Gary’s passing. Gary is a true friend of mine since we first met back in the ’60’s. Gary and I had many great business trips together covering our sales territories from Victoria to Winnipeg, Gary with Graydon Sales and me with Arwin Technical Sales.
Highlites included frequent Via Rail trips from Winnipeg to Vancouver including a couple of rides down the tracks in the Locomotive. And will we ever forget after leaving the Airport Bar in Calgary one Friday afternoon and boarding the wrong Air Canada flight heading for Montreal when we were supposed to be heading to Vancouver.
Too many good times together to mention here.
I will miss my buddy.
Best regards, Bob
Hello Donna: What a wonderful obituary, which reminded Hans and me of all the wonderful, festive times we had together over the years. All those great trips down to Minter Gardens to participate in the car shows, all the great parties at your house on the lake. All our love to you Donna.
Hello Donna. I was saddened to learn that Gary passed away. Gary and I lost touch with one another over the last few years and I regret that. He was a good friend and I wish I had stayed in touch. Gary and I had a lot of laughs together when attending model railway meets. Our trip to Tacoma to prepare for the 2016 Selkirk Express convention we worked together on was a highlight. All the best to you moving forward.
Donna, I am very sorry for the loss of your beloved Gary.
It wasn’t too long ago that I ran into you in town. It was then you told me Gary was in care.
Peace and love be with you.
Dear Donna; We are so saddened by our good friend Gary’s passing. He is now released from that terrible disease ! Gary was a great friend. We will always remember our boating days . The Christmas in July party, many events around the campfire with a little sip of “Jonny’s” best. Gary was alway’s there for support during our great years at Canoe Point. Gary was a true friend we will always remember. We will always be available to support you Donna