James Hayes, Sr.
Saginaw Twp., Michigan
June 30, 1942 - September 27, 2022
Below is a message shared by
James Hayes Jr
James Sr.'s obituary can be found here: https://memorials.snowfuneralhome.net/james-hayes-sr/5032135/index.php
But fret not. A life well lived! With his faith in God, he is celebrating in Heaven with his dear wife Judy, my mom, who passed 9 years prior.
He worked at the company right up until the end. Matter of fact, I'll take you through his last days to show that he went out on his terms, full of happiness and life. Sunday, my wife and I had him over for dinner. My 8-year-old daughter, Lilly, played her guitar for him, while, as seen in the attached photo, our 6-year-old, Ashley hugged him like this--for (not exaggerating) maybe 8-10 minutes or more and DID NOT MOVE. She just snuggled in with him like this for what seemed like an eternity. I talked to his best friend on Monday who had talked to my dad earlier that day, he told me my dad went on and on and on about the day he'd had and how special it was, spending it with his granddaughters, the hugs, the music, and the family fellowship.
Monday, he came into the office, doing his normal 'check up on everyone that he does a few times a week. In my office, I was working on new items, and he was sure to give his input "do this", "don't do that", "ohhh, I like that one". From there, he left to go to his social club to meet friends, also as he did a few times a week. Surrounded by several friends, he had one final cocktail. Suddenly started to feel ill and one of his doctor friends insisted he take an ambulance to the hospital. Upon arrival to the hospital, it was clear he was having a stroke, but as the Emergency Room doctor had told me, Jim said to her, "If it's my time, let me go, do not prolong this. I don't want to suffer and be kept alive by machines". He passed quickly, peacefully, and painlessly the next morning.
The man had beaten cancer three times in the last 2 years (lung, colon, and skin)...He was a true fighter. But the years take a toll and he was, as he often put it 'tired'--the cancer treatments and continued back pain were taking its toll on his 80-year-old frame. Nonetheless, the man was on the go until the end, and spent his last 24 hours or so doing things he loved...Family, business, and friends. How can one be sad for 80 years a life, concluded doing what he wanted, and even going out on his terms? We are indeed sad, but with a little smile on the inside.
I'd be glad to answer any questions, but will be in and out of the office over the next two weeks dealing with his affairs and preparing to celebrate his life on October 15.
Kind Regards,
Jim Hayes Jr.
President
Hayes Specialties Corp.
Since 1967; Now in our 55th Year!
Toll Free (US and Canada): 1-800-248-3603
International: 1-989-755-6541
Fax: 1-989-755-2341
e-mail: jhj@eHayes.com
