Name: Celebration of Life for Michael Patrick Hays
Start: 2017-07-15T15:00:00.000Z
End: 2017-07-15T18:00:00.000Z
Location: American Legion Post 11

Michael Patrick Hays

Michael Patrick Hays, 47, of Orlando, FL and originally from Lafayette, IN passed away on Thursday, June 15, 2017 in Southport, England.

Mike was the only son of Patty and Tim Hays, proud father of Lauren and Jackson Hays, and best friend to his wife Kaye Hays.

Mike suffered for 30 years from Crohn's Disease and died from complications of colon cancer.

Mike was born in 1970 and raised in Lafayette. After his great start McCutcheon High School he went on to be an extremely proud Purdue alum with a die-hard love for his Boilermakers and enjoyed one or two drinks at Harry's Chocolate Shop. He was a proud member of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity. Go Ugly Early and Boiler Up!

Medically unable to pursue his dream of working in aviation, Mike moved to Florida where he tried on may diverse hats, including Mickey Mouse ears and a pizza restaurant owner, until he found his true destination in the healthcare field as a nurse.

In mid-life, Mike studied hard and successfully became a Registered Nurse working at a Florida Hospital in the largest Neurological Intensive Care Unit in the United States. He relished his true calling. His naturally comforting, caring nature had found its perfect purpose. He was a trusted true friend to many at the hospital and was highly respected and loved in return. He helped many patients and families through some of life's most difficult times and had an emotional connection with everyone he met.

He moved into the role of Charge Nurse quickly and made it look easy, but it was emotionally taxing and he recently became interested in the Information Technology side of the hospital and had taken on a new role within the hospital as a Physician Advocate. He had finally found his perfect fit and position and loved his new welcoming work family immensely.

While on vacation with his mother, children, and wife; Mike surrounded by family, became sick and died suddenly at Southport Hospital in England.

Two of his proudest moments in his life were when his daughter Lauren was born followed by his son Jackson. He loved every moment spending time teaching, cooking, swimming, watching movies, and playing board games and cards with his children while always providing encouragement, education, and life lessons along the way. He helped guide them and knew they were smart and would make the right choices throughout their lives and reach his ultimate goal for them in life - to be happy.

Mike found fun, laughter, love, adventure, excitement, and mindfulness in every moment. He was the glue the brought people together and the life and soul of the party. He was an impressively smart man with incredible knowledge and he loved to win Trivia Nights and should have appeared on "Jeopardy"!

He loved to research, plan, and travel and recently checked London and Paris off his list. Mostly, Mike will be missed because of his heart. He was a good man with a pure, caring soul.

In Mike's final words he said "You never know how much you're loved until something bad like this happens. You go through life hoping you've made positive influences, and it looks like I didn't do too bad a job."

Most of all Mike just wanted his children, his family, and friends, to be happy and enjoy their life. Life is too short.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Michael's name to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, Purdue Cancer Research Center, or donate blood.

A celebration of Mike's Life will be on Saturday, July 15, 2017 from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post 11, 1801 S. 9th Street, Lafayette, IN.Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel in charge of arrangements.

Share memories, leave condolences, and sign the guest book at

www.soller-baker.com

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

Published by Journal & Courier on Jul. 11, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Hays

Sponsored by Soller-Baker Funeral Homes, Inc. – Lafayette Chapel.

31 Entries

Carl Howard

July 5, 2020

The death of Mike was so so wrong, so unfair. His family have educated me just how deprived how unfortunate I was to have never got to know him or call him my friend.
I was born the same year of a1970 so am very aware how cruel life has been to take him away when he still had so much to give. His family still never stop giving that love, affection, warmth and personality but it still misses Michael giving the same wonders to the world.
My thoughts are with you ALL and my love remains with Mike and all of his family, friends and colleagues.
Please take care and keep the candle burning to show the light yet lit in the world for you all.
Good hearts like Michael and his family are not as common as I would like or hope (well at least in my world of the UK) so keep yours as they are. To a very special someone, Mike.
Lots of love to you all, Carl. XXxxXX

Anna Hart

July 18, 2017

They always say that when you meet someone, that first impressions are something that you will always remember about that person.

My sister Rhonda and I met Mike at Flordia Hospital in the Nerological Intensive Care Unit when my sister (whom was a resident of Florida) suffered a stroke.

We had just driven all night from WV, which was a 13 hour trip. He met us in the hallway and introduced himself. He explained to us that our sister was on life support and prepared us for what we were about to see.

We were in awe of him. Because where we are from here in WV, nurses take care of 5 or more patients at a time and barely even know their names. But at this particular hospital, my sister was his only patient. So for 12 hours, our sister got his undivided attention. If a machine beeped, he was there to see what was going on, if we had a question, he was there to answer it. He accompinied her to her MRI, CT scans, and any other test that she left the room for.

We named him "Magic Mike". Over the course of the next few days, she was moved across the hall, and even though he didn't care for her those days, he still dropped in to say hello and to see if we needed anything.

He told us that he was originally from Indiana and that he passed through WV on his way to and from.

One day when he noticed my sisters fingers were swelling, he went in search of dental floss and said it was a trick he learned in nursing school. He was able to get the rings off her fingers and he approached my sisters boyfriend and I will never forget the words he said, he was so comforting, "when she wakes up and gets better, you can put these back on her finger" I was so touched by his actions. Although every nurse there gave my sister the utmost respect, he was the one that left a lasting impression on us.

My sister Rhonda stayed behind in the weeks to come to be with our sister that was sick, while I had to travel back home to work. She got to speak to Mike and he would find answers to all of our questions.

My sister did not walk out of that hospital as we thought, she passed a few weeks after being admitted. But I can assure you, it was not because she was not cared for. They had an amazing staff.

I am so sorry for your loss. I only spent a few moments with this man as he cared for my sister, and I seen what an amazing person he was and how he treated complete strangers. I can only imagine the type of man he was with his family.

You all will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Rhonda Simmons

July 18, 2017

Im so sorry for the your loss of this amazing. He was one of the many wonderful people who took care of my sister. He was so helpful in any way that was needed and i will forever be greatful for the compassion he showed her. Prayers to you all.

Melissa Baker

July 16, 2017

I met Mike through Kaye, and only had a few opportunities to spend time with them, together. This is what I witnessed, as someone on the periphery... a being of bright and enthusiastic light energy... a lover of laughter, life, and Kaye... a passionate and caring member of our community. He was clearly a healer and a torch bearer. His light is not dimmed by his transition from form to pure energy. He can be seen in the light in the eyes of those who love him... lifted by laughter and memories, sweet.

Wishing all who loved Mike the gentle coming of peace.

Aaron Brown

July 15, 2017

Mr & Mrs Hays,
No parent should have to say good bye to a child forever. My heart truly breaks for you both. Mike was clearly a much loved man; evidence of the great job you did raising him. Peace and love to you both.

Kaye,
My memories of Mike are mainly from junior high and high school. He was a great friend; funny and smart. I could see how much he loved you and how much he loved being in your presence. He left us too soon. He will be greatly missed.

Clive & Diane Suthern

July 15, 2017

Though we only knew Mike for such a short time his memory will be with us for the rest of our days .The sorrow of his passing will be felt by us for years to come .Our thoughts are with our daughter Kaye and all of Mikes family .Rest in Peace Mike .

July 14, 2017

To Tim and Patty. Never met Mike but met the grand children and love Tim and Patty Hays. I am so sorry for the loss of your child. Can't imagine the pain in your heart. If you need anything, I'm there for you.

Jim Taylor

July 14, 2017

Tim and Patty, so sorry for your loss. It is never easy to lose a loved one but even worse when you lose a child. It's not right. A parent should not have to bury a child. We lost Melissa in March of this year so I know what you are going through. Love you, just trust the Lord to help ease the pain and heartache.

Jamie and Greg Lynch

July 12, 2017

Patty and Tim, We are so sorry to see about Mikes passing in the paper. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. you have Our Deepest Sympathy.

Rita Miller

July 12, 2017

Although I never had the privilege of meeting Mike, his mother was one of my best friends growing up in Indiana. My heart aches for her and for the rest of Mike's family. My three daughters are nurses, two at Florida Hospital in Orlando. Even without reading all the messages I know Mike was a loving, caring man. It's an attribute of nurses. My sincere sympathy to Patty and the rest of the family. A light has gone out in this world but shines in the next.

Stacey Burey

July 12, 2017

Mike, you blew through Phys Informatics with energy and light. You are missed even though you were with us less than a year. We can't help feeling like God had a reason for you coming to our team as your final work destination. We prayed & continue to pray for Kaye, your family & loved ones. I still have your text telling me that you "needed this trip". I'm so glad you got your heart's desire. Sleep in peace dear friend.

Don & Marilyn Shore

July 11, 2017

So sorry for your loss; losing a child is devastating, losing one at such a young age is tragic. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Melissa List

July 11, 2017

I met Mike in the medication room on my first day on NCC. Mike was the first person to say hi to me and introduce himself. He then proceeded to make a typical "Mike" comment and we laughed. Working with him was a pleasure. We commiserated with one another and celebrated each other's happiness. Mike was easily one of my favorite people I've ever encountered. He had such a zest for life and laughter. I've dreaded this part of his life because it cements the fact that he has left his earthly body. I know that he is watching over every single one of us.

July 11, 2017

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Janel Vaughn

July 11, 2017

Two fun memories of Mike. One from high school; he being so proud of his white Cadillac with red leather interior. He took us for several rides. As an adult he opened his home to me, so that I could enjoy a vacation as I faced one of the most difficult times in my life. I remember him, literally running me through Disneyland trying to make sure I got to see all the best parts. I told him, "wait, I'm on Main Steet USA, I need a moment to take all of this in. Such a generous and fun person. I still can't believe he is gone. My prayers to you, Tim, Patty, Kaye and his children. He WILL be missed.

Kim Hamilton

July 11, 2017

I think of you and your family often! There is one incidence I think of in particular....a little unprofessional for work butt that's why we got along so well!! My thoughts are with your family and I'll see you on the other side! Sending nothing but love your way!!!

Haley Hohnhorst

July 11, 2017

Mike you were my first introduction to GT 11. You welcomed me to the family with open arms. I will miss having someone so smart I could run to for help. As I start my journey into Nursing, I will try to always bring your joy and compassion to my work. As a student you welcomed me in your room and helped me learn, as a tech you treated me like I meant something. Enjoy a cold one in heaven for me, we will see you one day!

Judy Sorrell

July 11, 2017

Hope you're in a wonderful place, free of any worry or pain, and watching over your family. Thank you for always being kind to me, Mike.

Kathy Lind

July 11, 2017

Mike, I knew you was a great guy when I started your precepting in NCC. You were always smiling, willing to help, helped others and never complained. You lived with a horable disease but never complained about it or used it to get attention. You always talked about your children and your new love Kaye. You my friend are missed so much and left our hearts with emptiness . I hope you are comfortable and I know you will be someone awesome angle. RIP my friend

Lourdes Vasallo

July 11, 2017

I see you all over this hospital , you will be missed my friend ❤❤❤

Myrna $ Bill Barrick

July 11, 2017

Our thoughts and prayers are with all the family of Mike Hays. You were taken much too soon, but God needed you now. I have been told, that heaven is one big party, and I am certain you are in the center of it. Rest In Peace.

Nicole Vest

July 11, 2017

You were my brother-in-law and my friend. You were always happy to see me and my family when we came to Orlando. I cried when I heard you were ill and again when I heard you had passed. We will miss you.

Jamie Grom

July 11, 2017

I will always remember your smile and encouragement when anyone was down. You have brightened every life you have been involved in. I will miss you dearly.

Carl Howard

July 11, 2017

Mike, I am sad to have never had the privilege of knowing a person as generous with his life to others. I can only remain rewarded by those he touched and left with his love. Missed by all that you loved and loved you.

Carl Howard

July 11, 2017

Jennifer Kresl Weitgenant

July 11, 2017

A light that went out way too soon. ❤

Suzie Parr

July 11, 2017

Mike was one of my charge nurses at Florida Hospital in the Neuro ICU and opened his arms, literally and figuratively, to me when I started. He would always provide lessons and learning opportunities and always asked how your day was. I will strive to be an example like Mike in every aspect of my life. All my love to his friends and family

Debi DeBruyn

July 11, 2017

Patty and Tim, what a wonderful tribute to your son and a shining example of the love you created in Mike. I am so sorry to miss the honoring of a life lived to the fullest. Ash gets married the same day. I will think of you all while celebrating love and my arms are wrapped around you.... ❤ Debi DeBruyn

Mike Bennett

July 11, 2017

Mike was always so nice and kind we were in different grades but would talk in the halls he respected all and that's what made him a person who will be missed and loved by all who knew him.

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