Hazel Elaine Knudsen

Hazel Knudsen

Hazel Elaine Knudsen was born in Wolback, Neb., on Aug. 31, 1907, to Otis and Rosa McCullough. Growing up in rural Nebraska, she developed a love of nature that was to stay with her all the days of her life.

After graduating high school, she began her long and rewarding teaching career, starting in Nebraska, and ending here in Lusk in 1975. She was deeply loved by her many students over the years and was very dedicated to them.

In January 1927, on New Year's Day, she married Albert Rosan Knudsen in Julesberg, Col. They later moved to Wyoming and homesteaded in Lost Springs. Following the depression, they moved to Manville, where they made their home for many years.

In July 1939, they adopted their only child, Nadine Elaine.

Mrs. Knudsen continued her education while living here in Wyoming, traveling every summer for several years to Laramie. She eventually received both her bachelor and master degrees. Her bachelor degree she received from the University of Wyoming and she later earned her masters from Chadron College in Nebraska.

Her teaching career spanned over 23 years. Both Manville and Lusk schools benefited from her knowledge and wisdom. She retired from the teaching profession in 1975. Following her retirement she enjoyed traveling and being with her family in California.

She was an active member and supporter of the Manville Community Church, VFW Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary, Delta Kappa Gamma, and the Business and Professional Women.

Following her husband's death in 1969, she moved to Lusk. Once retired, she was active with the Wyoming Retired Teacher's Association.

In all her associations, she held positions of leadership. A very committed woman, she provided help whenever it was needed.

In 1987, she moved to California to be near her daughter and grandchildren.

Last thanksgiving, she broke her hip in a fall, and was hospitalized in nursing homes for a few months. As she was getting better, she recently planned to move into a new home with Nadine and her husband.

It was not meant to be. On Tuesday morning, Sept. 12 at 3 a.m., she was taken to St. Jude's Hospital in Fullerton, Calif., and was called to her heavenly home at 5:12 a.m.

Her final resting place is here in Lusk next to her beloved husband Albert and among the many friends and neighbors whom she loved, and shared her life with.

She is survived by her daughter, Nadine; granddaughters Laurie Smyers and Cheri Browner, great-grandchildren Jeremi and Ashley Smyers, Adam and Allie Browner, three sisters, Mildred Alexander, Leona Madsen, and Dorothy Bell, all of Portland, Oregon; and one brother, Harold McCullough of Iowa.

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