Richard T. Hazzard

Richard T. Hazzard, passed away Monday May 29, 2023 after a brief illness, he was 65 years old. Rich was born March 21,1958 to Robert T. and Mary A. (Lawler) Hazzard. Rich often said he was popular among reprobates. He was known for his quick wit and wicked (often inappropriate) sense of humor. He loved good conversation and listening to the stories of people he crossed paths with.
He was known for his love of the theatre and the joy that he brought to others who saw the
magic he created with light. He was a loyal member of I.A.T.S.E. Local 35 and later Local 274
for over 45 years. Rich also spent many hours tending to a large collection of houseplants of
which he was very proud. He was a voracious reader and a strong supporter of the public
library. Among his favorite authors were Richard Brautigan, Kurt Vonnegut Jr. and Tom Robbins.
Rich is survived by his son Benjamin R. Hazzard, wife Patricia Ferguson, daughters Erin Ferguson
(Eric Shawbitz), and Margaret Ferguson; Ben's mother Bethany Hazzard, daughters Jennifer
Richard, Christy Richard (Albert), son Brandon (Summer) Richard, eight grandchildren, and also
Tony Ward, whom he thought of as a son. Rich was an ardent lover of dogs and will be greatly
missed by his constant companion Mala. He is also survived by a brother Robert (Susan)
Hazzard and a sister Sheila Rundell.
Rich was preceded in death by his parents, brother Timothy Hazzard and brother-in-law Robert
Rundell.
A Gathering: Please join his family for good conversation and to share stories on Monday June
5, 2023 from 6:00 pm until 9:00pm at Fischer Family Funeral Home 504 N. Michigan, Saginaw
Michigan.
Rich can be remembered through memorial contributions to the Friends of the Benzie Shores District Library, Post Office Box 384, Frankfort, MI 49635.
For Information, please contact Fischer Family Funeral Services, 989-755-8277.