Hazle Matthew Denton

In Loving Memory of Hazle Matthew Denton

July 26, 1937 – March 7, 2026

Hazle Matthew Denton, 88, of Paoli, Indiana, joined his Heavenly Father on March 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

A Life of Service and Faith

Born in Crawford County on July 26, 1937, to the late Gilbert and Dana (Newkirk) Denton, Hazle grew into a man defined by integrity and a quiet, steadfast faith. A devoted Christian, he found great joy and fellowship as a long-time member of the Orleans Wesleyan Church, where he was a constant, welcoming presence.

Hazle’s commitment to others began early in life as he served his country with honor as a medic in the United States Army. Later in life, Hazle joined the Indiana Army National Guard and retired after serving faithfully for 20 years. He dedicated his professional life to the manufacturing industry around Southern Indiana. He was a respected leader and a fixture at Mi-Lin Wood Products, where he served as a foreman until his retirement in 2000.

Roots in the Land and Community

Retirement didn’t mean slowing down for Hazle; it simply meant more time for the land he loved. He was a farmer at heart, happiest when he was out on his tractor or tending to his cattle.

Beyond the farm, Hazle was a cornerstone of the Paoli community. He never met a stranger and possessed a genuine love for people. Whether he was sharing stories over coffee at Hardee’s or catching up with neighbors at Walmart, his warmth and easy conversation left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

A Legacy of Love and Family

Hazle’s greatest pride was the family he built and the many lives he touched. He is survived by his beloved wife, Martha Crecelius Denton, with whom he shared a life of deep devotion. His legacy of strength and character continues through his two sons, Robert Denton and Ivan Denton.

He was a loving grandfather to Allison Denton Hunckler, Joseph Denton, and Robert Denton, and his first great-grandson, Jack Denton Hunckler. Hazle is also survived by his youngest and beloved brother, Paul Denton

Additionally, Hazle had a large and cherished circle of extended family.

He is survived by two step-sons; Harold Crecelius and Larry Crecelius,

Four step-grandchildren; Laura Collett, Bridgette Pavey, Amanda Cooper, and Ashley Conley.

Ten step-great-grandchildren; Hannah Tinkle, Kaleb Collett, Kaleigh Collett, and Kaidence Collett, Hunter Pavey and Brittany Pavey, Taylor Cole and Rayden Cole, Garrett Conley and Clara Conley

Three great-great grandchildren; Cashton Pavey, Aria Tinkle, and Virginia Collett.

All of whom held a special place in his heart.

Hazle now joins those who went before him, including his parents; his sisters, Helen Denton Cook and Wilma Denton Bunger; and his brothers, Glenn Denton, Elsworth Denton, and Gilbert Lee Denton.

Services and Remembrances

The family invites friends and neighbors to join them in celebrating a life exceptionally well-lived.

Saturday, March 14, 2026 Dillman-Scott Funeral Home * Visitation: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM

• Funeral Service: 1:30 PM

Interment will follow at Ames Chapel Cemetery in Paoli, Indiana.