Ashley Hazelwood: Tributes paid to a "one-of-a-kind" father and pilot who died in crash

Tributes have been paid to a “one-of-a-kind” Rhyl father of two.

Ashley Hazelwood, aged 61, died after a light aircraft crash at Dinas Dinlle Airport, Caernarfon, on Thursday evening. Mr Hazelwood has been described as a man of many talents, a plasterer by trade, but also having successfully tried his hand at being a plumber, electrician, welder, artist, tattooist and inventor.

He was married to Janet Hazlewood, for 43 years, and was father to Matthew Hazelwood, 41, and Alex Hazelwood, 40 and a grandfather of three.

Alex said his father lived his life to its fullest, he said: “Every time I called home, he would tell me of his new idea, some were incredible.

“My father was all about his hobbies, which were attacked with the same energy and drive that he applied to his work. Customizing cars was one of his hobbies, building and sailing canal barges was another.

“His final passion and joy was becoming a microlight pilot and flying.

“His love for flying left a twinkle in his eye. It gives me some small comfort that in his last hours he was doing something that made his feel so alive.”

Alex added: “He was fun loving, caring, supportive, and an ear to tell your problems to, a fountain of wisdom and young at heart. He was married for 43 years and when I think of my parents I see in my mind’s eye a young couple in love.

“He loved animals and always had a dog. He was driving down the road about six years ago and he noticed the cars were swerving around something in the middle of the road.

“When he got close he saw it was a young puppy. He stopped his car got out, picked up the puppy and took it home. He made the mistake of naming it, Rosie, on the way home and it became a part of the family from that moment on. Ashley was in all meaning of the words a true gentleman. He was one of a kind, always helpful and willing to lend a hand. He was also supportive, caring, and tireless in his love.”

North Wales Police spokesman said: “An investigation is underway by the Air Accident Investigation Bureau from Hampshire supported by North Wales Police.”

The funeral will take place on Wednesday, May 28, at 1pm at St Asaph cemetery.

Source:  http://www.rhyljournal.co.uk