Richard F. "Rick" Hayden

Stratham, NH
Richard "Rick" F. Hayden, 78, died on August 6, 2024 after a lengthy illness. He was born on October 16, 1945 in Lowell, MA, the son of the late Richard H. and Ruth (Riley) Hayden.
Rick grew up in Chelmsford, MA and graduated from Chelmsford High School in 1963. Following his graduation, he joined the United States Navy and served honorably until his discharge in 1966. He worked as an Electrical Supervisor for 47 years. The last 35 years of his career he was stationed at the Seabrook Nuclear Power Plant. An avid golfer, he enjoyed many outdoor activities including skiing, vegetable gardening, and caring for his yard and apple trees.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Elaine M. Hayden of Stratham, NH; his son Douglas R. Hayden and his wife Megan of Ladera Ranch, CA; his daughter Kerri A. Atkinson of Berwick, ME; 5 grandchildren, Bridget, Caroline and Madeline Hayden, and Isabella and Devin Atkinson; 2 sisters, Linda M. Pappas of Shirley, MA, and Susan Cusick and her husband Brian of Leominster, MA; sister-in-law Priscilla A. Fortin of Belchertown, MA; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved golden retriever, "Poppy".
A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 11 AM at St. Michael Parish Church, located at 9 Lincoln St., in Exeter, NH. Private Burial with Military Honors will follow at a future date in the Exeter Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Association in memory of Richard F. Hayden Alzheimer's Donation Link