Hazel Ruth Schakel's Obituary
Hazel Ruth Schakel, age 65, of Seymour, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at MercyOne Medical Center in Centerville, surrounded by the care and compassion of those who tended to her in her final moments.
Hazel was born on June 5, 1960, in Long Beach, California, the daughter of Virgel and Wilma Reva (Sills) Johnston. Hazel was united in marriage to Leonard "Rick" Schakel, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion. From this union came two children, Brandy and Leonard, who were the center of her world and her greatest pride.
A dedicated and hardworking woman, Hazel spent 25 years as a manager at Happy Joe's, where she became a familiar and friendly face to many. Her strong work ethic and leadership left a lasting impression on both coworkers and customers alike. Later, she continued her career at East Penn Manufacturing in Corydon, where she worked until her retirement in July of 2025.
Outside of her work, Hazel embraced life's simple joys. She found happiness in camping under the open sky, trying her luck at the casino, and spending quiet moments fishing. She had a creative spirit and loved crafts, as well as cooking meals that brought people together. Shopping trips and gatherings with friends and family were among her favorite pastimes, and she cherished every opportunity to make memories with those she loved.
Hazel will be remembered for her kind heart, her welcoming nature, and the joy she found in the company of others. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will live on in her children, family, and many dear friends.
Left to cherish Hazel's memory are her children, Brandy Sanders and Leonard Dean Schakel; her grandchildren, Bailey Sanders, Americus (Cooper) Schakel, Katana Schakel; five great grandchildren; her special friend, Bruce Miller; her siblings, Jane Vielma (Cornelio Vielma - Gutierrez), Virgel Johnston Jr., and Roxanne Ingram; as well as several nieces, nephews and extended family members and friends.
Hazel was preceded in death by her husband, Rick Schakel; her parents, Virgel and Wilma Johnston; her grandson, Morgan Sanders; and her siblings, Dinah Collins and Barbara Flactiff.
Per wishes, cremation has been accorded. A graveside service will be held at 10:00AM, Saturday, April 18, 2026 at West View Cemetery in Kirkville, Iowa. A luncheon will follow at the park. Memorials in honor of Hazel can be written to Brandy Sanders, to be designated at a later date, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Schakel family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at https://www.thomasfh.com or https://www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
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