Donald J. Hayes

Town of Residence – East Aurora, New York – 48 years.

In Loving Memory of Donald Joseph Hayes

Donald Joseph Hayes, a devoted family man, entrepreneur, and lifelong learner, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, craftsmanship, and curiosity. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 60 years, Janet Hayes. Don is survived by his children, Charlene Reynolds, Colleen Hayes, Douglas (Ellen) Hayes, Dean (Amy) Hayes, and Carol Hayes. He was the proud grandfather of nine: Cara and Melissa Reynolds, Daniel (MaryLynn), Kelly, and Connor Hayes, Nora, Erin, and Anna Hayes, and Phillip Geddis, as well as a great-grandfather of three. He is also survived by his sisters Patricia (late Fred) Muraco, Doris (Steve) Zatlukel, and Carolyn (James) Hessinger. Don was predeceased by his parents, Dennis and Cecelia; his brothers, Dennis, Cecil, Francis, and Vincent; and his sister, Mary.

Don was a proud graduate of Timon High School (1950) and the University of Buffalo. In 1970, he purchased Seneca Platers in Elma and later founded Fluid Kinetics in 1979, a company he led with vision and integrity until his retirement.

For 48 years, Don was deeply embedded in the East Aurora community. A faithful and active member of the Immaculate Conception Church, he served as a Grand Knight and was a longtime supporter of the church and its school. He also volunteered as a docent at the Millard Fillmore House, where he shared his passion for local history and storytelling with visitors from near and far.

Don had a spirit of adventure and an unshakable belief in making the most of life. He loved to travel and explore new places, whether it was a far-off destination or a scenic back road. A talented woodworker, he spent countless hours in his workshop, creating beautiful pieces with his own hands. He was also a devoted follower of the stock market, often reminding his children and grandchildren to “pay yourself first.”

A gentleman through and through, Don’s kindness, wisdom, and steady presence will be missed by all who knew him.

A funeral Mass celebrating Don’s life will be held at Immaculate Conception Church in East Aurora on Friday, June 20th, at 11:00 a.m., with calling hours at Wood Funeral Home on Thursday, June 19th, from 4:00-8:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations be made to Saint Luke’s Mission of Mercy or Immaculate Conception School in East Aurora.