Hazel M. Burger

Hazel M. Burger, 105, passed away on December 28, 2016. Hazel was born January 8, 1911 in Elkhart, Indiana. She was one of eight children born to George F. Byerly and Bertie L. Snyder. She had fond memories of her childhood, one that was centered on a strong Christian faith and included a love of learning. Hazel earned a teaching certificate from Manchester College before marrying Lewis J. Burger in 1936. They lived in numerous states and traveled extensively before settling down in Peoria, Illinois. They were blessed with 64 years of marriage before Lewis passed in 2000. Active in the community, she enjoyed tennis and art and supported many local charitable organizations, such as Methodist Hospital Service League, Friendship House, Salvation Army, and First Baptist Church. She was a long time member of the PEO sisterhood. In 1999 Hazel and Lewis moved to Sun City Hilton Head, where she continued her many activities. Always giving of her time, she volunteered at The Boys and Girls Club, Salvation Army Thrift Store, and Lowcountry Presbyterian Church. She had many friends in Sun City and especially enjoyed ballroom dancing, dine-arounds, and karaoke with her special friend Fred Zoda. An inspiration to many, Hazel was frequently asked about her secret to such a long and active life. She would always reply with simple answers: count your blessings, eat smart, stay active, keep learning, and always lend a helping hand. She experienced many transformational developments in her long life, to include electric lighting, indoor plumbing, world wars and the Great Depression. Throughout her life she embraced new technology – from airplanes to iPads – and loved her family. She will be missed. Hazel leaves behind her three daughters: Sarah F. Meyer, Sandra M. Iams, Glenys B. Ryan (J. Aiken Ryan), six grandchildren: Deborah Harrington (Michael), Tamara McHugh (Sean), Charles Asbury (Karen), Jacob Asbury (Irene), Melissa Bolf (Chris), Amelia Iams (Brett Hoffman), and eight great grandchildren. A service to celebrate her life will be held on Friday, January 6, 2017, at 11 a.m. at Lowcountry Presbyterian Church, followed by a reception in Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lowcountry Presbyterian Church or the Salvation Army.