Hazel M. Kearns
June 10, 1937 ~ April 13, 2026
Born in:
West Fargo, North Dakota
Resided in:
Fargo, North Dakota
Hazel Kearns, a woman of remarkable spirit and character, passed away on April 13, 2026 surrounded by family and friends. Born on June 10, 1937 in West Fargo, North Dakota. She was the daughter of Ellen Anderson and Henry Sukut, and the stepdaughter of Ole Sundahl.
Hazel grew up mostly in the Fargo area. She graduated from Fargo Central High School Class of 1957.
Hazel met Ted (Theodore) that same year when he asked her to dance at the Crystal Ballroom downtown Fargo. (The same week as the big Fargo Tornado.)
They were married a year later and eventually decided to make their home in Fargo.
Hazel had a natural gift for connecting with people; she was incredibly well-liked and made dear, lifelong friends wherever she went. This was true even at her first job as a waitress at Warren’s Cafe in Moorhead. She often shared the story of the day the whole Harlem Globetrotters team came in and sat at her counter and all ordered food. She was so proud that each player left her a fifty-cent tip! (Big money in 1957)
Her love for children eventually led her to open Hazel’s House Daycare, which she owned and operated for many years. She was so fun loving and a natural teacher. She deeply loved all the children she cared for, and her impact was so lasting that she remained a part of many of their lives long after they grew up.
Hazel also loved to travel. She was always ready to pack her suitcase and go on an adventure. She went on many magical trips all over the world with family and dear friends.
Hazel will be remembered most for her incredibly sharp wit and her keen street smarts. She could tell right away if someone was “true” or “mean” or “fake”. She was kind, thoughtful and generous who saw the world clearly and met life’s challenges with love, wisdom, and grit—traits she learned early on from her special aunt “Big Esther” Burke, and her special uncle Floyd Anderson. They loved her dearly and gave her the confidence to stand tall in this world. Her family and friends will miss the quick-fire humor and the straight-shooting advice that were her trademarks.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Theodore Kearns, her parents, and her sisters, Annette Underwood and Shirley Sundahl.
She is survived by her devoted children: Karene Kearns, Kyle Kearns (Maureen), and Kraig Kearns (Jovelyn). She was the proud and cherished grandmother of Kyle(Laura), Samantha(Joe), Melissa(Duane), Joey, Esther, and 8 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers, Edward Sundahl, Raymond Sundahl, and sister Esther Sundahl. She also leaves behind many wonderful nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors.
A special Thank you to everyone at Heathers House Hospice for the loving care they gave mom in her final days.
Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery, Fargo ND
Services
Graveside Service: Friday, April 24, 2026 2:30 pm
Riverside Cemetery - Fargo
2102 5th St S
Fargo, North Dakota 58103
(701) 235-2671
https://www.fargoriverside.com/
Reception:
Holy Spirit Catholic Church Fargo, ND
1420 7th St N
Fargo, North Dakota 58102
(701) 232-5900
https://holyspiritfargo.com/
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Karene, Kyle, Craig and family:
We are thinking about you during this time. You and the grandkids and great grandkids were Hazel’s world. She was the best mother, grandma, aunt, great aunt, sister, godmother and friend. She will be deeply missed.
Karene and Family-I’m so sorry to hear of your Mother’s passing. God bless Hazel’s life. Karene you were a wonderful daughter to her❤️
Liz and Steve Loge
So many memories of being at the Kearns home. Playing games and getting spooked by the quji board (don’t know if I spelled that right). It was a time where you could walk home at 2:00 in the morning (Becky and I did several times.). Being out that late and not getting in trouble because we were at the Kearns house. Ted and Hazel were almost like second parents.
So many memories of Hazel and her silly laugh and smile. I don’t think I ever saw her in a bad mood. Love you Hazel! Rest. You’ve had a full life.
Love Peggy ❤️
Condolences to you and your family. I’m praying for you all.
Hazel what great sweet wonderful lady. She will be missed. So much love. Hugs
Such a loving and heartwarming obituary and tributes to Hazel. Karene, I never met your mom, but I bet your generosity, creativity, kindness, and love of life flows from your mom. Hugs and prayers to you and your family as you mourn and celebrate her.
May she Rest in God’s Peace.
My deepest sympathies for the loss of your sweet MaMa. May she rest in peace. Karene you were a wonderful care taker for Hazel for many years. Your loving care allowed her to live her best life.
I didn’t know her but if she was anything like her daughter, Kearne, then I know she was a good lady. Bless your family and thoughts and prayers sending your way.
Aunt Hazel
Our hearts go out to your family at this time. Your mother’s gentle spirit, kindness, & caring nature made the world a better place. She always sent us off with treats whenever we left after visiting. Your parents were always so generous toward our family. Wishing you peace & comfort as you remember the lives of your parents.
Love, Carla Kronberger & Matthew
Aunt Hazel
Our hearts go out to your family at this time. Your mother’s gentle spirit, kindness, & caring nature made the world a better place. She always sent us off with treats whenever we left after visiting. Your parents were always so generous toward our family. Wishing you peace & comfort as you remember the lives of your parents.
Love, Carla Kronberger & Matthew