Kenneth D. Hayes, of Oak Grove, MO, passed away Tuesday, August 16, 2016 at the age of 82 years.
Kenneth was born June 23, 1934 in Madison, SD to Merle and Hilda (Peters) Hayes. He was raised there and later enlisted in the US Air Force and honorably served his county for four years.
On March 20, 1954, he was united in marriage to Dolores Thayer in Stanford, Montana and to this marriage three sons were born. His son Michael preceded him in death in 1977.
After his discharge from the Air Force, Kenneth worked for several defense contractors that were building the nation’s intercontinental missile defense system, retiring in 1997 to Oak Grove, MO.
Kenneth served as a trustee for Oak Grove including several years as chairman. He was the driving force and planner for multiple public works improvements, notably the construction of Oak Grove’s independent water supply well, water treatment facility and storage tower. Kenneth also oversaw improvements in Oak Grove’ water supply system and expansion of the village sewer system to all residents.
Kenneth was a private pilot and improved his aeronautical skills to attain multiple ratings, including flight instructor and ground school instructor. He was a proud member of the Sullivan VFW.
Kenneth is survived by his wife Dolores of the family home, two sons, Richard Hayes and his wife Jean of Fenton, MO and Steven Hayes and his wife Laurie of Ballwin, MO; eight grandchildren, Karen Hayes, Crystal Hoffmann, Kelly Hayes, Michael Albair, Monica Albair, Garret Hayes, Jessica Hayes and Emily Hayes; five great grandchildren Penelope, William, Ryker, Ethan and Theodore; other relatives and friends.
Along with his parents and son Michael, Kenneth was preceded in death by a brother Donald Hayes.
It was the desire of Mr. Hayes to be cremated. Interment will be private. Arraignments were made under the care of Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO.
Friends may sign the family’s online guestbook at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.