Bruce Hayenga

Bruce Eugene Hayenga, 82, of Staples, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family, on March 28, 2025. He was born on July 20,1942, in Staples to Raymond and Mildred (Johnson) Hayenga.

Bruce graduated from Glenwood High School before enlisting in the United States Army. During his service, he was stationed in Germany, where he proudly represented his country. Upon returning home, he met the love of his life, Jean Kalina, at the Lakeside Ballroom in Glenwood. It was love at first sight, and they were married on August 26, 1967. Bruce and Jean built a wonderful life in Staples and enjoyed raising their three daughters in the close-knit community.

Bruce attended The Staples Vocational School and earned a two-year degree in Culinary Arts. He worked as the Food Service Director for the Staples/Motley School District for over 30 years. Bruce managed concessions, was an assistant to the Athletic Director, and was known to sweep a floor or two during half-time. He was the Executive Chef for the Madrigal Dinners put on by the Choir Program, and assisted Frau Gross in the annual Oktoberfest meal. In 1986, Bruce was awarded Outstanding Layperson in Education by the Staples Education Association.

As an entrepreneur, he owned and operated The Peppermill Restaurant in Staples for seven years.

A true sports enthusiast, Bruce loved cheering on his favorite teams and sharing the excitement of every game. He enjoyed many glory years for the Staples Motley Cardinals but was happiest seeing his two grandsons on the basketball court for the Maple Grove Crimson. He was able to see both Noah and Kaleb participate in the State High School Basketball Tournament. He was also an avid hunter and a passionate antique collector and dealer. He spent the last seven summers at the Wadena Flea Market attempting to liquidate some of his “treasures”.

Bruce will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family and Tower Pizza. His legacy of hard work, love, and laughter will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Services for Bruce will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 12 p.m. at the Landmark Inn in Staples. Friends and family are invited to gather one hour prior for a visitation. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Batcher Block Opera House or the Staples Historical Society.

Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Jean; children, Jen (John) Champion, Becca (Andrew) Schroeder, Krista Hayenga; grandchildren, Noah, Kaleb, and Jacob Champion, Cynthia and Simone Kooner; siblings, Darlene Aaberg, Jerry (Betsy) Hayenga, Sandy (Bob) Pohlman, Marcy Revere; nieces and nephews and many other extended family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Raymond and Mildred, his brother, Roger, niece Darshayne Hayenga his brother-in-law Don Aaberg, and great nephew Nick Aaberg.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Staples.