STEPHEN D. HAZEN JR.

MILTON – It is with deep sadness that the family announces the Aug. 18, 2026, passing of beloved husband, friend, brother-in-law, uncle, and cousin Stephen Hazen, 81, after a long battle with Vascular Dementia. His love, honesty, and strength will be missed.

Steve was born in Springfield, VT, to Stephen and Dorothy (Johnson) Hazen. He grew up in the stone village in Chester surrounded by the love of a very large family with many animals, especially ponies and horses.

After high school Steve attended Castleton College. Soccer was his passion, and in his freshman year of 1963 he was a member of Castleton’s national soccer team. In his second year of college, he joined the Marine Corps PLC Program. He graduated as a second lieutenant and headed to Vietnam shortly thereafter as a first lieutenant.

After leaving the Corps he attended horseshoeing school on a GI Bill, returning to Vermont to teach Physical Education in Milton for a few years, where he earned the reputation of being a tough guy. He only wanted his students to do their very best and to learn respect and honesty. As these students became adults, they shared with Steve how much they now appreciated his guidance as a teacher.

For the next 45 years he followed his passion as a Farrier, mentoring young Farriers along the way. His many customers appreciated that he always put their horses first.

Steve is survived by his loving wife Sharon of 53 years, many friends, sister-in-law Catherine Hazen; brothers-in-law John Kalinen (Mary), Walter Kalinen and Gaylon Smith; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He also is survived by the very large, caring community of Milton.

A memorial service for Steve will be held Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the United Church of Milton, located at 51 Main St. in Milton. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall. Family and friends are invited to come and share their memories