Hazel Jean Van Gorder Smith died on Sept. 15, 2023 at her home in Boardman at the age of 84.
She was born on May 30, 1939 in Rainier to Archie and Myrtle Giberson Gore.
She was raised in Rainier. Hazel was united in marriage to Charles Van Gorder Jr. on Nov. 17, 1956 in Portland. They lived in Seattle, Portland and Sisters before settling in Boardman in 1981. She worked at Lamb Weston in Boardman for several years before she retired. Then, Hazel and Charles drove long-haul semi transport as a team for many years. Charles preceded her in death and she later married Arthur “Ted” Smith.
Hazel was a longtime member of the Country Church in Hermiston. She enjoyed crocheting, traveling, playing piano, church activities and family gatherings. Hazel cherished her family and made it a point to be at the birth of every grandchild.
She is survived by her sons, Gene Van Gorder (Kim), Irrigon and Jon Van Gorder (Kelsey), Dragoon, Ariz.; daughters, Myrtle Conlon, Boardman and Kathy Doughty (Wayne), Irrigon; brother, Harold Gore, La Pine; sister, Evelyn Sayles, Alabama; 20 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and one great-great-granddaughter.
Hazel was preceded in death by her husbands, Charles and Ted; daughter, Kayce; son, Nathan; brothers, Aaron, Gus, Archie, Vernon and Fred; sister, Julia; and grandsons, Seth, Michael and Zach.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Burns Mortuary Chapel, Hermiston.
A potluck gathering will follow at the Boardman Community Church with the main course provided. Please bring your favorite salad and dessert to share.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Hudson Cemetery, Rainier.
Those who wish may make contributions in Hazel’s memory to the Boardman Community Church or Vange John Memorial Hospice Education Fund.
Please share memories of Hazel with her family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
