Hazel Margaret (Harkness) Priem

Hazel Margaret Priem (1940-2024)

It is with great sadness that the family of Hazel Margaret Priem announces her passing on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the age of 84. Hazel was the beloved wife of Clarence B. Priem and a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend.

Born on October 21, 1940, in Oxbow, Saskatchewan, Canada, Hazel was the daughter of Elmer and Eva (Gilroy) Harkness. She grew up in Sherwood, North Dakota and graduated from Sherwood High School. Hazel went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Minot State University, becoming a dedicated teacher.

Hazel's love for the farm was evident in her life, where she raised cows, llamas, and red-tail deer. She also took great pride in her garden, finding joy in working the land. Alongside her passion for farming, Hazel was deeply involved in her church and valued her community connections.

She met the love of her life Clarence in Bigfork, MN in 1965. They married in 1966 and spent 58 years together full of love, laughter, and family.

Hazel is survived by her husband Clarence and their three children: Judy Eckerson and husband Ronald of Lakeville, MN, Gwen Riley and husband Charles of Valley Center, CA, and David Priem and wife Jill of Marcell, MN. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren Daniel, Casey, Kara, Charlie, & Emmy, sister Louise Eriksmoen of Minot, ND and brothers Russ Harkness and wife Cindy of Bismark, ND and William Harkness and wife Gwen of Milford, PA, and many beloved nieces, nephews, family and friends.

She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. A celebration of Hazel's life will be held at Bigfork Lutheran Church, November 30, 2024 @ 2pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bigfork Valley Community Foundation – Bigfork Valley Hospital – Acute Care.

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