Hazel Waslaske

It is with heavy hearts and fond memories that we announce the peaceful passing of Hazel Chesley Waslaske, who departed this world on June 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and cherished friends. 

Born on January 27, 1945, in Concord, Massachusetts, Hazel was a beacon of warmth and kindness, known for her generous spirit and unwavering dedication to her family and community. Hazel was the eldest daughter of Harry and Mary Chesley, and she grew up alongside her four siblings: Harry Chesley, Marie Dio, Ida O'Brien, and the late Alfred "Bucky" Chesley. 

From a young age, Hazel exhibited a steadfast devotion to her family, which only grew stronger as she embarked on her own journey through life. She found love and partnership with her beloved husband, Michael, with whom she shared 25 wonderful years. Together, they nurtured and raised three remarkable sons on their dairy farm, embracing the joys and challenges of farm life with grace and resilience. Though Michael and Hazel are now reunited in the afterlife, probably polka dancing, her legacy lives on through their children, Michael (Stephanie), Christopher (Carrie) and Anthony. 

Hazel's nurturing spirit also extends to her grandchildren, Christopher, Jaden, Jack, and Avery, and her great-grandchildren, Kayde, Dahlia, Grey, Michael and Elena, who were the light of her life. Hazel's heart was vast and her friendships enduring. Her lifelong friends, Ruth "Coochie" Robertson and Janet Mousseau, were not only companions but sisters of the heart. Together, they enjoyed crafting, cooking, and making cards, often amid laughter and shared memories. 

Hazel's infectious smile and bright eyes were known to all who encountered her, and she always greeted guests with something freshly baked, a testament to her love for hospitality and warmth. A lifelong member of Our Lady Immaculate Church, Hazel dedicated much of her life to her faith, serving as a Master Catechist and former Director of Religious Education. Her work touched countless lives, and her commitment to her church community was unwavering. Additionally, Hazel brought her nurturing spirit to her role as Manager of food services in the Athol School District, where she found joy in feeding and caring for the students. Hazel's passion for learning and adventure led her to attend a Tuscan women's cooking school in Italy, an experience she cherished and often shared stories about with friends and family. Whether on her tractor, tending to her farm, or engaging in her beloved crafts, Hazel lived each day with joy and purpose. 

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts. Her parents, her husband Michael, and her brother Bucky precede her in death, and they welcome her with open arms into the next life. 

A service to honor Hazel's remarkable life will be held on June 24, 2026, with a funeral mass at 11:30 am in Our Lady Immaculate Church, 192 School St., Athol.  Burial will follow in Gethsemane Cemetery, Athol.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 from 9-11 am at Mack Family Funeral Home, Athol-Orange Chapel, 110 New Athol Road, Orange. 

Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating a life well-lived, a life of love, laughter, and immeasurable kindness. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Hazel's memory to Our Lady Immaculate Church, ensuring her legacy of faith and service continues to touch lives for years to come. Hazel's spirit and love will remain a guiding light for all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed.