Hazel Augsburger

Hazel Matilda (Sanger) Augsburger, 98 years old, of Columbus, Ohio passed away peacefully at 9:32 AM on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Wesley Glen where she resided for over 31 years. She was listening to her favorite old hymns while feeling the touch of her two daughters' hands.They were continually by her side for the four days prior to her passing, as well as other family members and many friends that came to spend cherished time with her and be with their beloved friend. Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Nancy Augsburger and Blythe Bertsch (Gene); and two granddaughters Courtney Schoepp (Ryan) and Sarah Bertsch who both adored her as well. Hazel was preceded in death by her parents: Matilda Quellhorst Sanger and Frank Preston Sanger, and her siblings: Ethelda Russell, Vance Sanger, Louise Hawkins, Pauline Collins, Merrill Sanger, Norma Turner, Warren Sanger, and Edith Layton. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband Bob Augsburger. Hazel was born on March 15, 1928, in Olathe, Kansas, (near Kansas City), inside of her country farm home, to Matilda Quellhorst Sanger, "Mama" and Frank Preston Sanger, "Papa". She was the eighth child of nine and was the last one still surviving. Her childhood was influenced by the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, but her mother made sure they were always cared for and loved. Hazel knew how to sew and cook before she went to school. She was raised in the Brethren Church and was baptized in the river. After graduating from high school in 1946, she attended McPherson College in Kansas. While there, she met Bob, and they were married in 1951, and both graduated in 1952. She majored in Home Economics and also got a teaching certificate. Hazel and Bob were married for 43 wonderful years! Hazel began teaching Home Economics in 1952 in Kansas. After staying home with her daughters for ten years, she began working again at a credit union for teachers. In 1969 Hazel and the family moved to Columbus, Ohio where she taught preschool at their church. She returned to teaching Home Economics in 1973 at Hamilton Local Schools for 27 years. After retiring from teaching, she worked at Peddler's Village Craft and Antique for ten years. Hazel enjoyed being a dedicated and faithful member and was involved in lots of activities and functions at North Broadway United Methodist Church. She was chairman of the Altar Guild for two terms, in 1978 she formed a committee to make beautiful Chrismon's for Christmas, she was on many committees and participated in many studies. In 1994 Hazel and Bob moved into Wesley Glen Retirement Center. While there she served as Resident Council president for two terms, has been honored as "Volunteer of the Year" two times, was chosen as the "Young at Heart" candidate in 2004, and participated in many other committees and activities. Hazel lived a full and vivacious life every day. She looked at each day in a positive way. She continuously loved those around her and was a friend to everyone and never knew a stranger. The family would like to thank the entire staff at Wesley Glen, as well as the loving care that she received from the Wesley Hospice Staff. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider a memorial donation to North Broadway United Methodist Church. Please join us for a “Celebration of Life” service that will be held on Saturday June 6, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Wesley Glen Retirement Center in the eighth floor auditorium.

Hazel Augsburger

March 15, 1928 - May 9, 2026