Hazel Janssens

Hazel Marion Burkhardt-Kestner–Shirkey-Janssens, 92, of Brockway Township, passed away of natural causes on Friday, January 24, 2025, at home surrounded by family.

Hazel Marion Burkhardt was born February 27, 1932, in Orchard Park, New York, the daughter of the late Christ and Theresa (Ott) Burkhardt.

Hazel moved to Avoca, Michigan in 1966 and owned and operated the Avoca Market until it burned down in December of 1968. She was a kind hearted, loving, caring and giving women with a keen sense of humor. Hazel was strong and not easily rattled and will be missed by many. We are eternally grateful for the years we had with her, for the love she shared, and for the memories she created.

Surviving are two sons, Les (Evelyn) Kestner of Avoca and Robert Kestner of Oak Park; three daughters and a son-in-law, Bonnie McCormick of Yale, Carole Withey of Lexington and Mary Lou (Tom) Barrett of Athens, GA. 22 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren and 5 great, great-grandchildren; her sister, Agnes Gerwitz of Machias, NY; brother, Lester Burkhardt of North Collins, NY, as well as many nieces and nephews whom she loved very much.

She is preceded in death by a granddaughter, Theresa Shirkey-Barrett; and four siblings, Clifton Burkhardt, Catherine Gerwitz, Georgiana Gonzales, and Carolyn Henry.