HAYES, FRANCIS EARL – August 3, 1928 – February 23, 2014
Our father, Francis Hayes, passed away at the age of 85 years in Coquitlam, BC, Dad was born in Swift Current and raised on the farm in the Simmie area. In his youth he enjoyed athletics, music and school (except, he said, Composition.) His parents encouraged further education and he successfully pursued degrees in both Chemistry and Education. Dad taught high school for many years as well as held positions as principal. After leaving teaching he worked as a Rat Patrol officer and hauled gas for Co-op. In his retirement he enjoyed volunteering for the Home Town Club and United Church, working in his garden and spending time with his grandchildren. Many in Shaunavon will remember him as the man who was always seen walking and who would stop by to share his homemade toffee. One of his proudest accomplishments was being a Mason and he wore his Masonic ring until shortly before his passing. Dad is survived by his three children, Earl, Jeannine (Rob Grey), and Myrene (Brian Ballachay); four grandchildren: Jordan, Nicholas, Mitchell and Riley; brother, Jim Hayes (Eileen); sisters, Betty Hayes and Carol Lawton; sister-in-law, Myrna Hayes; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Earl and Nepha; sisters, Joyce Reeder and June Moritz; brother Eddie Hayes; and nephew Robert Hayes. The grandchildren will always remember getting bumped in the nose while hearing, “I caught a fish this big.”