July 2, 1924 - September 21, 2024
In Loving Memory ~
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Hazel Serin, at age 100.
Hazel was born in Leeds, Yorkshire, England, the only child of Roland and Ivy Jenkinson who predeceased her. Hazel was also predeceased by her first husband, Peter Serin, in 1990; her second husband, Nicolaas Samsom, in 2022; and her son Ralph (Carolan) of Ottawa in 2023.
Hazel is survived by her two other sons, Christopher of North Vancouver and Roger (Janice) of Calgary; five grandchildren: Megan Ashlee (Brandon) Bowes, Avely, Michael (Tara), Mackenzie and Spencer; and five great grandchildren: Talan, Jarrett, Kyler, Everley and Charlotte.
On completion of high school in 1940, Hazel joined the war effort in England where she met her first love, Peter. They were married in 1947 after the war. During this period, she started a lifelong involvement with volunteering to help in her community, starting with the Women's Auxiliary in the aftermath of the war.
In 1957, Peter, Hazel and their three sons emigrated to Canada, settling in Port Hope, Ontario.
Every summer the family took annual camping trips across North America, initially in a tent, progressing to a tent trailer and finally a motorhome. It was during these trips that Hazel and Peter fell in love with western Canada and planned for retirement on Vancouver Island. They continued making long motorhome trips around North America after retirement.
Throughout her time in Port Hope, Hazel volunteered in numerous activities, in particular acting as a leader and counsellor in the Boy Scouts of Canada for over 20 years.
Having missed the opportunity to complete her education due to the war, Hazel completed a degree in Psychology at Trent University in 1973 after her sons had left for university.
After Peter's retirement, he and Hazel moved to the Comox Valley in 1982. There, Hazel was instrumental in founding the Comox Valley Senior Peer Counselling Service in 1992, where she used her skills and energy to support seniors who experienced challenges in their lives. Hazel continued this until she was no longer able to drive. In 2012, Hazel was awarded the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Service Award for her volunteer service to the community.
After the death of Peter, Hazel travelled frequently throughout the world until she met the second love of her life, Nicolaas Samsom. Hazel and Nick continued to travel while still physically able and enjoyed many trips to Europe to visit family and friends. In their late 80's they started enjoying cruises, including to the Mediterranean and Caribbean. With age, their travel came to an end, and Hazel and Nick enjoyed the peace and seclusion at their home on River Meadow Farms.
Hazel lived at home until shortly after her 100th birthday. Her health deteriorated quickly after suffering a fall, significantly impacting her mobility and preventing her from returning to her home.
We wish to acknowledge the care Hazel received from the many caregivers while at home; from the staff at the North Island Hospital Comox Valley; and for her last few weeks, from the staff at Luther Court in Victoria. Per her wishes, a private memorial will be held.
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