Jeffrey D. Hazard

(3/14/45-5/05/25)

Saratoga Springs, NY - Jeff Hazard (80) died peacefully surrounded by his brother and sister on May 5, 2025.  He is predeceased by his parents, Victor and Marion (Snyder), and is survived by his loving siblings Jimmy Hazard (Mary Jo), Mary Jane Anderson (Frank), John Hazard (Dorothy), Joseph Hazard (Debra), Alice Dennis (Gary), Michael Hazard (Tammy), and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Jeff graduated from St. Peter's Academy, where he was widely considered one of the top basketball athletes in the state of NY. During his tenure, Jeff held the section II record with 1,275 career points, and had a game high of 50 that stood for decades. Jeff led the Saints through several winning seasons during his storied high school career.

Because of his basketball talent and academic abilities, Jeff was recruited by several top schools including Kentucky, Wake Forest, Canisius, (who was in the finals of the NIT that year).  Jeff chose St. Bonaventure University and was awarded one of their (only four) full 4-year athletic scholarships.

At that time in the mid 60's St. Bonaventure's basketball teams were nationally ranked. Jeff had many highlights in his college career including 29 points against Quincy, and the winning basket at Madison Square Garden as time expired against Fairfield. He is an inductee of both St. Peter's (SCC) and St. Bonaventure's Hall of Fame.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Jeff earned a Master's degree in English, and another Master's degree in Education. He was a widely acclaimed, and hugely popular teacher at Oswego Valley High School. Jeff also enjoyed putting on plays with students - his favorite being Romeo and Juliet.

During his retirement, Jeff enjoyed reading the classics like Shakespeare and Merton, handicapping horse races, and taking walks in the state park.

He will be missed. Good-bye Goose. HONK! HONK!

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the 2-Springs and 5-Springs staff at Wesley Nursing Home, as well as to all the Hospice staff that assisted in Jeff's extraordinary care. We appreciate their love, patience, and compassion.

At Jeff's request, there will be no calling hours. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes (518-584-5373).

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 15th at 11:30 a.m. at St. Peter's Cemetery in Saratoga Springs.

Memorial donations in Jeff's memory can be made to The Community Hospice Foundation , Gift Processing Center, 310 S. Manning Blvd., Albany, NY  12208.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com