John E. Hayes, 78, passed away peacefully at home on Friday June 7, 2013. Born in Brooklyn, NY, John enlisted in the US Airforce and served honorably in the Korean War. He then graduated from the NYS Police Academy and began his distinguished 35 year career with the NY State Police stationed at Troop A. Headquarters. John was promoted to investigator and Western NY Hostage negotiator, serving there until his retirement.
John was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He shared his enthusiasm for the outdoors, music, travel, politics and many other interests with his family, neighbors and friends. John was an expert skier and served on the NYS Ski Patrol for several ski resorts including Holiday Valley in Ellicottville, New York. He and his wife Kathy traveled the world together having visited over twenty countries. In his spare time, John also became an accomplished woodworker and furniture maker and his children and grandchildren will enjoy his hand crafted heirlooms for years to come.
He is survived by Kathy Hayes, his wife of 37 years along with his children, Timothy (Chris) Hayes of CT, Mary Kay (Kristin) Hayes of Canandaigua, Lori Hayes of Belmont and Lisa Hayes of PA, along with Jeffery (Kimberly) Burr and Amanda (Patrick) McCumiskey of Belfast.
John also leaves behind three siblings including his brother Arthur (Betty) Hayes of Angelica, Helen (Gerard) Lang of Brooklyn, NY and Ann (Jim) Sloan of Angelica.
John was the proud grandfather of Rachel and Sophie Hayes of CT, Mark, Alexandra and Samuel McCumiskey and Amanda Burr; a great grandchild, Lucy Lue Burr-Hadsell of Belfast; along with many nieces and nephews.
In his youth John tended horses at stables in Brooklyn and he continued to pursue his passion for horses and other animals throughout his life in the country. He will always be remembered for the way he inspired others with his knowledge, respect and love for animals. John had many beloved pets throughout his life including his favorite beagles, "Tough Guy" and most recently "Julian."
Friends may call at the Treusdell Funeral Home, 2-4 and 7-9 pm Monday June 10, 2013. Funeral services will be on Tuesday June 11, 2013, beginning with prayers at the funeral home at 10:15 am. A mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Patrick's Church in Belfast at 11:00 am. The Rev. Dennis Mancuso, pastor will be celebrant and burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Belfast. In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Golisano Childrens Hospital C/O Strong Hospital, Rochester. Or the Belfast Rescue Squad.
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