Richard "Dick" Hayes

Richard "Dick" Hayes passed away on August 19, 2024, while working in the outdoors that he loved. Dick was born on January 7, 1947, in Toledo, Ohio, the 4th child of Robert and Ethel Hayes.
Dick graduated from Sylvania High School in 1965 where he excelled at numerous sports and was a "top runner" on the Wildcat Harriers Cross Country Team that went undefeated during their inaugural year. His journey continued to Ohio University where he played lacrosse and graduated with a bachelor's degree in mathematics education. Dick returned to Northwest Ohio where he accepted a teaching position with the Anthony Wayne School District. He taught eighth grade math and advanced mathematics for 31 years. He was known as "Mr. Hayes' to the thousands of students he taught during his tenure. Many of his students attest that he had a thorough teaching technique and would gladly tutor those needing extra help. "Mr. Hayes" was memorable and well regarded by the Anthony Wayne Alumni.
Dick was a dedicated son, brother, husband, uncle and friend. He married Nancy Fahringer in 1971. They relished their years living on the bank of the Maumee River, enjoying the variety of birds and wildlife at their doorstep. Together they doted on their beloved springer spaniels: Clazel, Shadow and Chauncey. Dick was someone who never met a stranger. He had a gregarious personality, distinctive chuckle and a playful sense of humor. He had countless friends (cougars you know who you are) and was well known to all who passed him on his daily walks. Dick was an avid golfer and was a member of Brandywine Country Club and Riverby Hills Golf Club. He was a loyal supporter of all Anthony Wayne sporting teams, including time spent coaching the Generals' Girls Volleyball and Basketball teams. He was a lifelong fan of the University of Michigan--Go Blue --much to the chagrin of his brother Jim, a die-hard Buckeye.
Dick was preceded in death by his loving wife Nancy, parents and two brothers, Robert and James and his dogs Clazel, Shadow and Chauncey.
Dick is survived by his sister, Louise (Gerald) Stedman of Waterville, his nephews Jon (Jacki) Stedman, Perrysburg, Greg Stedman (Paonia, CO) and Luke Hayes (Toledo) and niece, Rachel Latta (Waterville), many great and great-great nieces and nephews as well as his devoted dog, Alfred "Alfie".
Dick donated to numerous charities and wildlife organizations. He loved supporting local businesses and was frequently spotted socializing at Dale's, La Banda, Shawn's, Chowders, etc
The family asks those wishing to offer a tribute in Dick's memory to consider Nature's Nursery or the Anthony Wayne Athletic Department.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday September 10, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Liberty House located at 4 S. River Road Waterville, Ohio 43566. Please join the family for light refreshments. Ample parking is available on the street, park and church.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Peinert-Dunn Funeral Home Waterville, Ohio.
To leave an online condolence or fond memory with the family please visit www.dunnfuneralhome.com