Michael P. Hayden

Michael P. Hayden

Charlemont, MA - Michael Paul Hayden of Charlemont, MA-with profound sadness, we announce the passing of Michael (Mike) Paul Hayden, who left us on Sunday, October 12, 2025 after a valiant five-year battle with colon cancer. Mike passed peacefully at home surrounded by family and his favorite Hospice nurse, who ensured he had every comfort and need in his last weeks of life.

Mike was born January 28, 1961 in Northampton, MA to William and Connie (Muzyka) Hayden. In his early years, Mike loved being outdoors and was an avid skier. He loved snowmobiling, 4-wheeling, riding his motorcycle and woodworking. Mike was a great family man and loved spending time with his children, nieces and nephews and his beloved pets Bear and Nikki, who pre-deceased him. He coached soccer and attended all of his children's sporting events. As a Boy Scout Mike earned the highest rank of Eagle Scout. He earned his degree in Electrical Engineering while working and raising his two children. He served honorably in the U.S. Air Force from 1983 to 1987 and was an Engineer at Rockwell Automation from 1995 until his illness forced him to retire in June of 2024.

Later in life Mike enjoyed camping, hiking and spending time with his children & grandchildren and attending their sporting events. He loved being busy and working around the house. He completely renovated his kitchen from floor to ceiling while undergoing chemotherapy. He cherished spending quiet time at home with his wife, dogs and family. Mike had a huge heart and never missed an opportunity to help others; with his friendly and outgoing nature, he was loved by those in his community and all who met him.

Mike was very active in his church and was an altar server, offering collector and any other way he could serve. He reinstated and organized the annual parish potluck picnic. His greatest joy was helping those in need. He was a 4th degree Knight in the Trinity Council Knights of Columbus and he was instrumental in obtaining an accessible stroller for the child of a parishioner through this organization.

When he was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer in 2020 he faced the diagnosis with dignity, grace and often humor. A true inspiration, he never once complained and bravely dealt with the symptoms and side-effects.. He became a fast favorite in the oncology department, cheerfully greeting the nurses and other patients at every appointment, often cracking jokes to help lighten the mood. He would talk with new patients and try to alleviate their fears.

Mike is survived by his loving wife Carlene, his children Samantha (Shawn) Atamaniuk and Christopher Settle, step-children Cassandra Millett, Christina (Nicholas) Howe and Caitlin Millett and grandchildren; his parents William & Constance Hayden, siblings Pam (Gary) Wood, Kathy (Mark) LaValley, William (Theresa) Hayden, Jr., and Sandra (Richard) Tetreault, several nieces and nephews and his beloved dogs Dougie, Monty and Luna.

Services will be held on Saturday, November 1st with calling hours from 9-10:45 am at Smith-Kelleher Funeral Home in Shelburne falls, MA, a funeral Mass at 11:00 am at St. Joseph Parish, Shelburne Falls, MA, followed by a burial service at the Leavitt Cemetery, Charlemont, MA and a celebration of life from 1:00-3:00 pm at St. Joseph Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trinity Council of the Knights of Columbus.