Hazel Frances Dickinson, 94, a longtime resident of Astoria and Warrenton, Oregon, died peacefully on November 14, 2013, under the loving care of Hospice. She was born in Grant City, Missouri on November 1, 1919 to Merle and Maude Wood. She was married for many years to Captain Dale Dickinson, a Columbia River Bar Pilot, who preceded her in death in 2006.

Hazel is survived by her sister Thelma Henry, son Ronald Dickinson, daughter Nancy (David) Hanson, and two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her brother, Wilbur Wood (SPHS '41).

During World War II, Hazel worked at the Lockheed Plant in Burbank installing electrical wiring in B-17 bombers. Later in life, she became a realtor and sold real estate in the Astoria area. She also enjoyed golfing and snow skiing with her family. Whether you knew Hazel as an avid golfer, snow skier, or as a guest of one of her finely prepared meals, she simply knew you as a cherished friend.

A dedicated homemaker, she spent her life caring for her husband and children. Following her husband's passing, she left her homes in Warrenton, Oregon and Sun City, Arizona, and moved to Ventura, California to be closer to her daughter and son-in-law. She lived in a beautiful retirement community in Ventura until her health failed in 2011, requiring her to move to a nursing home.

She was smiling and happy to within days of her passing. All who came in contact with her found her a pleasant caring person with few demands but many compliments and expressions of appreciation. A loving person who was loved in return.

The Daily Astorian, December 11, 2013