Abbott pays tribute to courageous Hazel Tony Abbott (pic) praised Hazel Hawke for her courage in raising awareness of Alzheimer's disease. OPPOSITION Leader Tony Abbott has praised Hazel Hawke for her courage in raising public awareness of Alzheimer's disease. The former wife of prime minister Bob Hawke died on Thursday aged 83 from complications of dementia. Mr Abbott said Australians everywhere admired Ms Hawke and would be mourning her passing. "She was much loved for her courage in facing up to and raising awareness of Alzheimer's disease," Mr Abbott said in a statement on Thursday. A private funeral for family and friends will be held soon, with a wider memorial to be held at a later time.