Michael Hayes, 79

Michael Hayes, 79, of Bull Valley, IL passed away February 24, 2026, in the care of Suncrest Hospice in Elgin, IL. Mike was born August 18, 1946, in Dallas Texas to Johnny and Gloria Hayes.

He graduated from Lane Tech High School in 1964 and proudly served his country in the U.S Marine Corps from 1964-1967. He was a Vietnam and Agent Orange Veteran. Mike went on to be a Chicago Local 63 Architectural and Ornamental Iron Worker until retirement. He married Carol (Koester) Hayes, his pen pal sweetheart in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on April 20, 1968. They were married 57 years.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife: Carol (Koester) Hayes; his loving son: Scott W. (Christina) Hayes; sister: Jeanne (Mark) Amann of Fort Davis, Texas; nephew: Ron Pallach; and his 2 grandchildren that meant everything to him, Parker and Carlee Hayes. He cherished his neighborhood of High Meadow and the many neighbors and friends who made it a special place.

Mike was preceded in death by his beloved son: Steven M. Hayes in 2017. He was also preceded by his parents; mother-in-law: Dolores Koester; Brother: Pvt. William Hayes USMC K.I.A Vietnam 1968; brother-in-law: Ron Pallach Sr.; and niece: Julie Pallach.

Memorial donations may be made in Mike’s name to: Veterans Path to Hope in Crystal Lake, IL or to Operation Wild Horse (Helping Veterans) in Bull Valley, IL and is greatly appreciated.

Arrangements entrusted to Colonial Funeral Home in McHenry, IL.