CONTINENTAL – Donald R. “Don” Hazelton, 71, of Continental, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Mercy Health St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima. He was born on February 22, 1954, in Defiance and was the first child of Lawrence Junior and Jenny Ann (Miller) Hazelton. Don graduated from Continental High School in 1972.
He was employed by General Motors in Defiance, Ohio, where he dedicated years of service before retiring. Don also served as a Monroe Township Trustee for several years, faithfully giving back to his community.
On August 24, 1974, Don married his high school sweetheart, Deb M. (Huff) where they were able to build their home on Grandpa Miller’s place. Together they built a beautiful life centered on family, hard work, and faith. He was a member of the Dupont Church of the Brethren and continued his faith through prayer and Sunday morning services via streaming.
In May 1986, Don and Deb welcomed their beloved son, Kenny R., whom Don deeply loved and would do anything for. Later, they were blessed with three grandchildren, Hunter, Mason, and Millie, who quickly became “the loves of their lives.”
Don is survived by his son, Kenny; three grandchildren: Hunter, Mason, and Millie, all of Continental; his sister, Darlene Prowant of Continental; several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-laws; and several nieces and nephews who adored him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Sandy Varner; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Don and Marie Huff who became his best friend; and sister-in-law, Donna (Huff) Hiltner.
Don’s lifelong passion for farming began at an early age while working alongside his Grandpa Miller. That love continued with his father and later with his son Kenny and grandchildren, who loved helping with chores and riding equipment. Many heartfelt conversations were shared sitting together in the shed along with his four-legged pal, Izzy.
His devotion to John Deere machinery was unmatched, he loved the green and yellow colors and was always looking for the latest and most efficient equipment or methods to make farming better. Being in the field was where Don felt most at home.
In 1982, Don experienced an event that forever changed his life, but it never defined his spirit. Even as a quadriplegic, he returned to his position at General Motors and continued to work, proving his strength and perseverance daily. His journey became an inspiration to many, setting an example of integrity, faith, and appreciation for life’s blessings.
Those who knew Don knew how much he loved the “good old days.” He could talk for hours about farming, his favorite topic, with anyone who would listen. He believed being early was always better than being five minutes late, and his biggest worries were the weather: too much rain, too little rain, windstorms, and hail.
Don was also a quiet helper in his community, a silent contributor to many causes, and a friend to anyone in need.
Don will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His legacy of love, strength, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Funeral service will begin at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 25, 2025, at HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Continental with Pastor Terry Porter and Pastor Solomon Okang officiating. Visitation will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Friday and 9 to 10 a.m. on Saturday prior to the service at the funeral home.
Memorial donations may be made to Ohio AgrAbility www.agrability.osu.edu/support-ohio-agrability. Condolences may be expressed at www.heitmeyerfuneralhome.com.
