Hazel C. Hagemann, 82, died Friday, April 27, 2018 at North Central Health Care Center, Wausau. She was born July 13, 1935 in Bemidji, Minnesota, daughter of the late Roy and Alvina (Franke) Henrich. On June 13, 1959 she married Arthur J. Hagemann at St. Robert Catholic Church, Merrill and he preceded her in death on June 3, 1991.
On October 18, 1996 she married Edwin McAuliffe at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Wausau and he preceded her in death on May 6, 2014. Hazel was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary and a member of the Lincoln County Sports Club. Much of what defined Hazel’s life was the heroic work she did for foster children.
She gave much of her time, energy, and love caring for children who were waiting for homes and families for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of LaCrosse. Seventy-six infants began their lives in Hazel’s capable, loving care. There was rarely a time when a baby wasn’t present in the Hagemann household.
She also helped shape the early lives of a number of very lucky children to which she provided daycare. She was active with the Boy Scouts of America as a Den Mother for years that extended far beyond her son, John’s Cub Scout membership. In addition, she spent many years as a CCD teacher at the elementary level.
In her private time, Hazel loved a good scary movie, especially any that included the Universal Monsters – the Mummy, Frankenstein, and Dracula. In addition, she was a dedicated and creative prankster. She rarely missed an opportunity to make others jump or laugh.
Above all, she encouraged all those around her to live a life of kindness, generosity, gentleness, and passion. Hazel felt it was important to never miss an opportunity for a good story or an amazing life experience. Survivors include her daughter, Lisa (Steve) Belanger, Wausau; son, John (Trina) Hagemann, Stoughton; and granddaughter, Bailey Belanger, Fox Point.
She was preceded in death by her parents and husbands. The funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Wausau. Rev.
Msgr. Mark Pierce will preside. Burial will be in St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Merrill.
Visitation will be Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until services all at the church. The family wishes to extend its heartfelt thanks to Evergreen Place at North Central Health Care for the care they provided to Hazel during her stay. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.
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