The world is a sadder place today with the loss of John A. Hayes, 93, who passed away peacefully from congestive heart failure on December 19, 2014.  John leaves behind his beloved wife of 67 years, Helen Buthod Hayes; eight children and their spouses, Kathleen Hayes Allen and Bill, Kevin Hayes and Janet, Robert Hayes and Kathryn, Susan Hayes Scott and John, Margaret Hayes Cremin and Kevin, Sharon Hayes Foraker and David, Michael Hayes and Diana, and Beth Hayes Gray and Steve; 16 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; 29 nieces and nephews;along with numerous friends and other relatives, all of whom loved him and will miss his spirit, kindness and love of life.  John was born in Jacksonville, FL and raised in Baxter Springs, KS.  He served as a staff sergeant cryptographer in India during World War II and loved telling stories about his several ocean crossings and adventures during his time in the service.

John worked for the University of Tulsa for 28 years, most recently as Vice-President of Finance and Business Administration, before his retirement in 1986.  After he retired, John served on many local boards connected with the Catholic church, Bishop Kelley High School, Tulsa Teachers Credit Union, and The Newman Club at the University of Tulsa.  He and Helen traveled often, visiting their children throughout the United States and Europe.  He delighted in his grandchildren, and they in him.  John loved to fish, anywhere and anytime.  He especially loved his annual fishing trips to Montana, which he made for over 50 years, beginning with friends, eventually with his sons and finally with his friends, sons and grandsons.  Having his grandchildren join the group was one of his most cherished memories.

John is predeceased by his parents James and Minnie Hayes, sister Camilla Eck Gifford, brothers Richard and Charles Hayes, and grandchildren Michael Hayes Gray and Steven Willars Hayes.  Very special thanks to Dr. Mike Weisz, who cared for John with love, compassion and honesty.  He was a godsend to our family and we will always be grateful.  The family also wants to thank Heidi and all the loving caregivers and staff of Interim Healthcare Hospice.

Visitation will be Monday, December 22 at 6 PM, with Rosary to follow at 7 PM, both at the Church of the Madalene, 3188 East 22nd Street S, Tulsa, OK.  Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, December 23, 10 AM, at Church of the Madalene.  Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery. After cemetery rites at Calvary Cemetery, there will be a reception at the church.

Contributions in John's memory can be made to Meals on Wheels at 12620 E 31st Street, Tulsa, OK  74146, Catholic Charities at P.O. Box 580460, Tulsa, OK  74158, or Interim Healthcare at 2828 E 51st, Ste 218, Tulsa, OK  74105.

Fitzgerald Ivy Chapel 918-585-1151.