Ellensburg, Wash., farrier and American Farriers Journal contributor David Hazlett passed away.

Hazlett was a farrier for over 50 years and member of the Farriers Association of Washington State. He wrote "The Way it Was", a series of stories that explore how farriery has changed — and stayed the same — over the years. Read all installments of "The Way it Was" here.

"For those of you who were lucky enough to know my dad, David, you would probably describe him as a funny, book-reading, story-telling kinda guy who enjoyed a good beer and learing. He saw the world as a place he could try and make better. He would always see the best in people. He would tell me if you can’t laugh at yourself, you’re missing out on some of the best jokes," says his daughter, Emily Hazlett, on Facebook.

Hazlett is survived by numerous family and friends. No celebration of life has been announced.