Hazell family to hold 50th reunion, June 13-14

Each year, the Branson/Lakes area is a popular destination for family reunions and milestone family celebrations. Often identifiable by matching T-shirts, hats, etc., the groups can be spotted trooping through Silver Dollar City, grilling at area picnic pavilions and attending shows around town, some gatherings spanning three or even four generations. 

The weekend of June 13-14 will be an extra special reunion for the Hazell family, as multiple generations of multiple branches of a large family tree return to their Branson/Hollister roots for the 50th time.

Harry (b. 1894) and Levina (b. 1899) Hazell were married in 1913, and their first child, Vernon, was born in 1914. There were 18 children in total from the same two parents, with no twins. One daughter died in infancy in 1928, and the youngest, Dottie, was born in 1943. Several of the brothers served in World War II, all returning safely, and Donald (b. 1918), also served on the Civilian Conservation Corps. 

The siblings were raised in a small home built on old U.S. Hwy. 65 in Branson, where “Grandpa Hazell” was a master woodworker/woodcarver. Along with his oldest son, Harry Hazell accepted the commission to build the original set of pews in the School of the Ozarks chapel. 

Two of the 18 siblings are still living: Jean, who lives in Hollister, and Dottie, who recently moved from Hollister to be with a daughter in Arkansas. 

In 1976, Donald and Alva (b. 1924) realized their responsibility in keeping this large family connected.  They curated the first Hazell Family reunion on Alva’s property in Springfield, Missouri, and later moved the party to Table Rock State Park, where they continue to meet annually.  Each June, family members travel from across the U.S., and occasionally even from other countries, to enjoy food, fun and sharing of memories and family updates. At least 100 are expected this year. 

Preparation begins early, with a Facebook page (“Hazell Family Archives”) for sharing photos, memories of previous gatherings and even a pre-gathering for family members living close by to test out some of the recipes while getting plans in place! Shirts and other souvenirs have been in the making as well, using the creative talents of family members; this year’s logo is “Fifty Flippin’ Years.”  

“We are very grateful for the ongoing connections of this large family,” shared granddaughter Julia Kovac, “and especially for being a product of the historic Missouri Ozarks, specifically Branson.” 

Her remarks sum up something that is often overlooked or sadly missing in today’s hurried culture: Reflecting on family legacy, in person whenever possible, helps pass on memories and values to new generations, helping them feel loved and connected wherever life takes them. Plan those gatherings while you can, and while the oldest generation—curator of the most memories—can still attend and share! The Hazell clan cherishes that connection to family, and they also enjoy celebrating the family-friendly atmosphere of the Branson area and take pride in having family roots here. 

We at the Globe congratulate the Hazell family on keeping those connections going, and wish them safe travels and a delightful gathering!