Don Phillip Hazlett

August 3, 1933 - November 30, 2015

Don Phillip Hazlett died Monday November 30, 2015 at Ellis Hospital, Schenectady, NY. He was born on August 3, 1933 in Glen Cove, Nassau County, New York, son of English professor, Ray W. Hazlett and E. Frances McCord Hazlett, a high school English teacher. Don grew up in Houghton, New York, and graduated from Fillmore High School. He then went on to attend graduate schools, Alfred University and SUNY Geneseo State College. He first received certification to teach high school English. After teaching for several years, he then became certified first as a high school counselor followed by certification as a psychologist. He retired as Greater Amsterdam School District’s psychologist. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three siblings, Mildred Jeanne Hazlett Blowers, Richard William Hazlett and Theodore (Ted) McCord Hazlett. Surviving him are his brother; The Reverend Francis Ray Hazlett, and sister Carol Hazlett Venuto. Don was the adventurer of the family, who loved to hitch hike when a young man. He went to Alaska four times, doing some hitching along the way. He became interested in dog sledding and learned his skills while in Alaska. He shared with us the won of once race by sleeping on the sled the whole way instead of stopping along the way to get his rest. When he moved to Mayfield, he continued dog sled racing. At one time he had up to 50 dogs in his kennel. Unfortunately, the warmer winter weather shut down dog sledding in the North East. When Don retired he achieved his wish to hike the entire Appalachian Trail. He also worked on building his home and was grateful for help from his neighbor friends. He spent time beautifying his land, planting fruit trees and flowers. Every spring locals looked forward to see the thousands of blooming daffodils that he had planted. In keeping with Don’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral service. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Gloversville Funeral Home, 4 Second Ave., Gloversville. Condolences may be made to the family online at www.gloversvillefuneralservice.com.