Hazel Mae (Avant) Adams
Born February 11, 1931, at Tagus Camp 7 in Tulare County, CA to Howard and Mary (Stanitzky) Avant, Hazel Mae Adams came to the end of her long journey through the darkness of dementia on November 6, 2020, at the age of 89, in Reno, NV. The youngest of six children, she was the last of her generation. Hazel was predeceased by her parents and siblings Howard (Adele), Theodore (Carolyn), Alice, Gertrude (Eugene) Bussey and Betty (Donald) Farias as well as niece Cathy Bussey Bradley.
Hazel was a very special lady with a kind heart and soul. She had a smile for everybody, right until the end. A very generous woman, she knew and cherished the value of family and friendship above all else.
Being a Depression-era child, Hazel learned and passed on a great many bits of wisdom that still remain valuable tips for life. She made good with everything she had and was great at repurposing what other people would throw away. Her family often called her a true pioneer who was known for her strength and will. Being proud of her Polish heritage, she often said she rose above adversity because she came from sturdy Polish stock.
Throughout her long work career, Hazel was known as a hard-working and exceptional employee. While still in high school, she worked at the local telephone office in Yerington, NV and also at the local soda fountain. After she graduated from Yerington High School in 1949, she made her way to Sierra Army Depot, working as an ammunition canner. Over the years, she held several positions at Sierra Army Depot, as well as a short stint at the VA in Reno and Anaconda Mine in Yerington.
Hazel returned to Yerington in 1979 then went back to work at the Intelligence Office at Sierra Army Depot until her retirement. She made the most of her retirement, thoroughly enjoying her beloved home and property above Doyle. Severe dementia dictated specialized care and Hazel spent the last year of her life at Brookdale Senior Living in Reno, NV, where she was well-cared for and much loved by the staff.
Hazel is survived by her children, Richard Fowler and Denise Roberts; grandchildren Chris (Joy) Roberts, Richard Fowler, Jr., William (Megan) Johnson, Angela Fowler and Travis (Tia) Fowler; seven great-grandchildren; brother-in-law Donald Farias; six nieces and nephews and a great many dear friends and colleagues. Due to COVID-19 issues, a memorial service will be scheduled later. Hazel will rest in peace with her family at the Yerington City Cemetery. As she often said, “I got the job done.”
