The Richmond News, Aug. 30, 2024

Hazel Drevs

Hazel Ruth Drevs, 88, of Richmond, passed away Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, at her home. Hazel was born Dec. 5, 1935, in Kansas City, the daughter of Robert and Lela Mae (Potter) Van Camp. She was united in marriage to Junior Melvin Drevs of Richmond on Feb. 10, 1957. He preceded her in death on Oct. 15, 1984.

Survivors include three daughters, Barb (Chris) Dove of Kansas City, Bonnie (Brian) Huston of Lexington and Mary (Dale) Duffett of Richmond; and four grandchildren, Nathan (Janine) Sego, Shannon Duffett, Alex (Cassie) Sego and Ethan (Paige) Duffett. Other survivors include five great-grandchildren, Emersyn Duffett, Corbin Pietrzyk, Quinn Sego, Collin Sego and Reagan Sego; three sisters, Viola Beltz of Cabool, Carolyn Van Camp of Holden and Alda Ruark of Springfield; and a son-in-law, Marty Sego of Webster City, Iowa.

In addition to her parents and husband, Hazel was preceded in death by her daughter, Melvelle “Mel” Sego; sister, Charlene Lambert; and two brothers, Robert VanCamp and Leslie VanCamp.

As a young child, Hazel’s family moved to Colorado, where they lived for a time before returning to Thornfield. It was there that she completed her education.

As a devoted farmer’s wife, Hazel assisted her husband with the daily responsibilities of farm life while raising their daughters. In addition to working on the farm, Hazel took on roles outside the home. She worked at Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in the dietary department, where her natural caregiving abilities exceled. Her compassionate nature led her to provide in-home care for those in need, always with a caring heart.

Hazel’s passion for caring for others extended to her greatest joy — running a licensed daycare center from her home. She returned to school to gain the skills to provide a nurturing environment for children, a role she cherished deeply.

In her personal time, Hazel enjoyed a variety of hobbies that reflected her love for detail and patience. She found joy in solving puzzles, reading and completing crosswords.

Birdwatching brought her peace. Baking, cooking and canning were expressions of her love for her family. Above all, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 30, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 1 p.m., followed by the services at 2. Interment will be in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Please share your memoires of Hazel with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.