ALFRED and LINDA HAYWARD

ALFRED HERBERT CARL HAYWARD (1955-2026) LINDA YVONNE HAYWARD (1953-2026)
With heavy hearts, the family of Al and Linda Hayward share the passing of a couple whose lives were deeply intertwined in love, family, and friendship. Married for over fifty years, Al and Linda built a life together centered on hard work, laughter, and the people they cared about most.

Linda Hayward was born in Barrie, Ontario, in 1953. She later moved to Thunder Bay, where she built a long and respected career in the medical field. Over the years, she worked at St. Joseph's Hospital, Thunder Bay Orthopedics, and finished her career at Dr. Pynn's office, where she was known for her dedication, compassion, and kindness toward patients and colleagues alike.

Linda was predeceased by her parents, Clifford and Yvonne Merkley. She was known as an outgoing and warm-hearted person a true social butterfly who could make friends anywhere she went. She loved scrapbooking, playing cards, bowling, and cheering on her beloved Toronto Maple Leafs, but nothing brought her more joy than time spent at camp surrounded by friends, family, and especially her grandchildren. Linda's gentle nature and deep care for those around her made her the heart of many gatherings. She was the heart of every room she walked into someone who loved being surrounded by people, laughter, and connection. She had a way of holding our family together, keeping us close and grounded, always knowing just how to keep us in line when we needed it. Her strength was quiet but unshakable, her resilience inspiring, and her support something we could always count on. She was our constant.

Al Hayward was born in Edmonton, Alberta, in 1955. He was predeceased by his father, Hunton, and his brothers Eric and Kevin. Al's work ethic and determination were unparalleled. He began his career working in the bush around Thunder Bay, running a slasher crew, and later worked for Great West Lumber, where he remained until its closure. From there, he headed west, working on pipeline projects in northern Alberta and in the potash mines of Saskatchewan. His final chapter was working alongside his son Corey, helping build Bear Trak Outfitters into what it is today.

Al was known as a hard-working, loyal, and caring man at times stubborn but most often described as a gentle giant. He was happiest outdoors, with a fishing rod in his hands, or spending time with the people he loved. His quiet strength and willingness to always show up for family and friends defined the man he was; someone who would listen and offer advice whenever it was needed.

Al was a passionate fisherman and hunter, and also enjoyed snowmobiling, but his greatest pride was the family camp that he and Linda purchased in 1980. What began as a treed lot slowly grew into a place filled with memories a welcoming retreat where friends and family were always invited and always felt at home. The camp became Al and Linda's lifelong labour of love and a symbol of the life they built together.

While Al and Linda had two children of their own, their home and hearts were always open to many more. Through years of boxing, school activities, and community involvement, they became steadfast supporters and guiding figures to countless young people. Their steady encouragement, quiet support behind the scenes, and welcoming presence made everyone feel like family. To many, they were more than parents they were mentors, role models, and unwavering cheerleaders, and those "extra kids" became a cherished and lasting part of their extended family.

Together, Al and Linda created a home and a life full of love, generosity, and community. Their partnership was built on loyalty, shared adventures, and a deep commitment to both family and each other. The legacy they leave behind lives on in the many memories shared at camp, around campfires and laughter, and in the lives of the family and friends they cared for so deeply.

They will be lovingly remembered by their children, Corey (Sam) Hayward, Alecia (Will) Cox; their cherished grandchildren, Liam and Blake; Al's mother, Clare Stewardson; his sisters, Mavis Holmquist and Brenda Bittle; and Linda's sisters, Dorothy (Brian) Henwood, Janet (Dave) Leblanc, Nancy (Dan) McGaw, Judy (Kelley) Lamke, Cheryl (Wally) Playle, and Mary Ann Hudon, as well as too many nieces and nephews to list.

Please join us for a casual open house in celebration of Al and Linda Hayward on April 25, 2026, from 12:00-3:00 p.m. at the Da Vinci Centre. This will be a come-and-go gathering to share stories, laughter, and memories.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpler Times Cremation Centre, 575 Central Avenue, Thunder Bay.

Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com