Eugene Thomas Hayes

Eugene Thomas Hayes, known to friends and family as Gene, died peacefully on July 28, 2016, in Bellevue surrounded by family. Gene was born in Buffalo, NY on September 6, 1924. Gene attended school in Buffalo and entered the Army Air Corps during WWII. After the War he married the love of his life Ruth, and graduated from the University of Buffalo with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Gene went to work in the Aerospace Industry working for Bell Aircraft, Crosley, and American Bosch, where he travelled to many locations, eventually settling in the Seattle area where he joined the Boeing Company. Gene had a rich career at Boeing working on everything from bombers to the Saturn Moon Rocket, also becoming a specialist in anti-submarine warfare and electronic warfare (member Association of Old Crows). During his time at Boeing he developed two patents, which Boeing retains. He was an avid fisherman, loved boating, enjoyed hunting and travel. He and Ruth travelled extensively, especially to Hawaii. Gene and Ruth enjoyed an active social life with friends at the Haller Lake Improvement Club, Gene would diligently tape the music to dance the night away. Gene was a lifelong member of the Lake City Elk's Lodge, where he swam and exercised. Gene and Ruth were married for 64 years before Ruth's passing in 2010. Gene's last trip was on a Veteran's Honor Flight in October 2015 to the War Memorials in Wash. DC, accompanied by his son Bill he was honored from the beginning until his return remarking It was the best trip I have ever been on. One of Gene's greatest joys was his family, he was a devoted father supporting and helping his children though every stage of life. Gene is survived by his son William Hayes (Deborah), daughter Nancy Bennett, son Patrick Hayes (Patricia), son Michael Hayes (Judy), 9 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren .