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Karen Hayes Obituary

Karen Ann Hayes
8-26-43 – 11-12-10
Mother, daughter, wife, neighbor, teacher, friend passed peacefully in her home the morning of November 12. She died after a valiant two and one half year baffle with a rare form of neck cancer. She virtually never complained of her illness. She is survived by her 96 year old mother, Gertrude, her husband of thirty-six years, Jim, children Karl (Cynthia), Andrew, Ryan, and Colin (Michelle) and grandchildren Josh, Sam, Nicole and Courtney. After graduating from U.C. Berkeley, she taught for thirty-eight years, the last thirty-five in Portola Valley, mainly kindergarten children. She was blessed with many great friends, especially her fellow teachers from PVSD. Her ancestors were part of the original Donner Party but split for the Oregon Trail. In lieu of flowers we ask that donations be sent to Pescadero High School, Dept. of Athletics, 350 Butano Cutoff, 94060. She was a strong Viking booster. The celebration of her life will be held Dec 18 in Pescadero from 12 to 4 at the Native Sons Hall in downtown Pescadero. Everyone is welcome. She especially wanted to thank Dr. Nyugen and the entire oncology staff of RWC Kaiser as well as her nurses and other doctors for their wonderful care. They were with her every step of the way.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Dec. 2 to Dec. 3, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Karen Hayes

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5 Entries

Janet

December 16, 2010

Jim and Family,
So sorry to hear the sad news about Karen. She will be dearly missed. May all your wonderful memories together comfort you all at this difficult time. And most of all, may the Peace of God, thru your prayers guard your hearts and thoughts as you cope without her. Phil 4:6,7

Zachary Kruth

December 9, 2010

Mrs. Hayes was a wonderful person who will be sorely missed. I have nothing but great memories of my time in her Kindergarten class and those first formative years at Ormondale. Best wishes to the family.

Deb Smith

December 9, 2010

We are so sorry for the passing of Karen Hayes. Both of my daughters had her as their kindergarten teacher and still remember her so fondly. When I was a new parent to the district, she was so kind and patient -- explaining everything and helping me feel right at home. Our whole family gives thanks for her life and prayers for comfort for her family.

Jenny Williams

December 9, 2010

Mrs. Hayes was my Kindergarten teacher and helped me grow in my education and as a person. She was so kind, had a great heart, and was always smiling. Best wishes to the Hayes family.

December 8, 2010

Both of my sons took their first steps into elementary school with the help of Karen Hayes. She was a wonderfully kind and gentle soul. She had the reputation of "being good with boys"...this just meant that she had endless patience to deal with the high energy level that boys have--what a loss for her family, friends and community.
With great sadness,
Teresa Godfrey
Past President and Board Member,
Portola Valley School District

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