Cambridge, NY - Hazel Mae Lentz, 95, formerly of Cambridge, NY, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at the Slate Valley Center in Granville, NY. She was born on September 6, 1929, in Stillwater, NY, to Kenneth F. and Mary Agnes Cowden Wallace Loveland.

A lifelong learner and a woman of great compassion, Hazel spent her life giving back to others. She was educated in Cambridge and Amenia, NY, and dedicated many years of service at the NYS DDSO in Wassaic, NY, as a Therapy Aide. Hazel also worked tirelessly as a counselor for rape victims in Amenia, offering support and a listening ear to those in need.

An animal lover at heart, Hazel's fondness for cats was only rivaled by her deep appreciation for the beauty of nature, particularly her flower gardens. In her spare time, she could often be found knitting, solving word find puzzles, or enjoying a competitive game of cards, especially pitch, at the Shushan Grange. A highlight of her years was spending time with family, whether it was entertaining during the holidays or riding in the convertible with her beloved husband, Francis.

Hazel was predeceased by her loving husband, Joseph Francis Lentz, Jr., who passed away on October 22, 2023, after 75 years of marriage. Together, they built a family filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories. Hazel is survived by her children: Cheryl (Rod) Bellows of Travelers Rest, SC, Mary Ellen (Alan) Columbe of Westfield, MA, Joseph F. (Linda) Lentz, III of Poughkeepsie, NY, and Diane (Alan) Cole of Brewerton, NY. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A calling hour will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025, from 10-11 am at the Ackley, Ross & Gariepy Funeral Home, 73 West Main St., Cambridge, NY. A service will follow at 11 am with Rev. Peter Bailey officiating. Interment will be at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, NY.

In honor of Hazel's lifelong love for animals, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the SPCA of Upstate New York, 588 Queensbury Ave, Queensbury, NY 12804.

Hazel's legacy of love, service, and devotion to her family and community will be missed but never forgotten.

To express your sympathy or share a memory of Hazel, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com

SPCA
588 Queensbury Avenue, Queensbury NY 12804