Darrel L. Hayes

Darrel L. Hayes, 78, of Wauseon passed away Saturday, May 14, 2016, in his home. Darrel was born on Sept. 8, 1937, in Wauseon, the son of the late Charles and the late Fern (Eicher) Hayes. On Sept. 28, 1957, he married Carol Meister, and she survives.

He worked for George Becker for many years, until he was able to realize his dream of farming. He had a farrow to finish swine operation for many years. When this became too strenuous, he turned to real estate and continued to be active until his death.

He enjoyed sports, particularly those his grandchildren participated in. He followed them diligently and helped coach the girls softball team when Tessa was in high school, and, of course, there were his beloved Wolverines. He was a member of Fayette Christian Church, Wauseon F&AM, Wauseon VFW, Wauseon Sons of the American Legion, and the Toledo Board of Realtors, and was a former member of the Fulton County Pork Chop Club and P.E.R. of Wauseon Elks Lodge #1734. He was also a member and past president of the Wauseon Homecoming Committee, the Wauseon Chamber of Commerce, and the Northwest Ohio Board of Realtors.

Also surviving are his daughters, Jennifer (Marlin) Ledbetter of Kansas City, Kan., Jill (Jeff) Hayes-Deckebach of Ottawa Hills, Ohio, and Jodi (Pence) Hayes-Roth of Bradenton, Fla.; two grandchildren, Michael Deckebach and Tessa Deckebach; and a brother, Jerry (Marianne) Hayes of Brooklyn, Mich.

Also preceding him in death were brothers Tom Hayes and Jack Lynn Hayes.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday May 17, 2016, at First Christian Church in Wauseon, with Pastor Gene Sugg officiating.

Friends may visit with the family 4-8 p.m. at the church.

Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home in Wauseon has been entrusted with arrangements.

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider either Fayette Christian Church or the Sons of the American Legion.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.GrisierFH.com.