AUBURN — Hazel M. Binette, 94, of Auburn, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 1, at Clover Manor Nursing Home.

Hazel was born on Feb. 4, 1924, in Livermore to Daniel L. and Lucy Anne (Groves) Poland.

Hazel overcame a challenging childhood before lying about her age so she could go to work in a mill as a teenager. She eventually went back to school and earned her high school diploma the same year as her youngest daughter. Whether in the factory or raising children, Hazel always worked hard to make life better for herself and for her family.

Hazel worked with her ex-husband, Leo J. Binette, to build a successful company, Binette’s Wrecker Service.

Hazel loved to be outside, whether it was going for walks or skiing on water or snow, or swimming.

Hazel was known for her large flower garden, which was a regular attraction for weddings, visitors and even photographers and newspapers.

Hazel was a gifted artist. One of her paintings was presented to Ronald and Nancy Reagan. Hazel received a personal letter from the president thanking her for the painting, which hangs in the Ronald Reagan Library in California.

Hazel loved music and taught herself to play numerous instruments. She founded a musical group, The Golden Nuggetts, and remained active with them until her 90s.

Hazel had a great love for the Lord. She was a member of the Riverside Drive Baptist Church in Auburn where she was a longtime organist.

Hazel is survived by three daughters, Jackie Binette of Auburn, Gail McGray of Greene and Rachel McAllister of Buxton; two sons Lawrence Furrow of Portland and Leo G. Binette of Auburn. She also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews. She also will be missed by her many friends.

Hazel was predeceased by her parents; four brothers Fred, Henry, Daniel and Ralph Poland; and a sister, Helen (Poland) Hendricks.

The family would like to thank the wonderful people at Clover Manor in Auburn and Androscoggin Hospice Care.

Online condolences and sharing of memories may be expressed at www.lynchbrothers.com.

Hazel M. Binette