James Joseph Hayden

Jim Hayden died peacefully at home after “75 good years and two bad weeks.” After taking a fall, Jim spent time at the hospital before coming home to rest. His last words to every person who came into his room, family and staff alike, was some variation of “I love you”, “Thank you for helping me”, or a compliment on how smart, caring, or capable they were. He will be remembered by his friends, family, and clients for his gifts of hospitality, generosity, and kindness to all he met, as well as being a man of integrity who lived by his motto, “Always do the right thing.”

Jim said that he had accomplished everything he set out to do in his life. He attended Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School, graduating in 1962. As a young man he worked at the Postal Service.  He founded his own business, Hayden’s Tax Service, which he headed successfully for over 50 years before passing the torch to the next generation where his legacy continues today. Jim was a lifelong learner, who traveled and read every book he could get his hands on. He is the owner of one of the most extensive collections of President McKinley memorabilia in the country, as well as a vast collection of historical newspapers.  He was inspired by the words of President McKinley, “All a man can hope for during his lifetime is to set an example, and when he is dead, to be an inspiration for history.”

Jim loved and was so very proud of his family. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Kathleen Hayden; children, Kathy Hayden, Julie (Richard) Wagner, Joseph (Emily) Hayden; step-children, Kelly Queen, Scott (Stephanie) Queen, Kristy (Danny) Hagglund; eight grandchildren; sister, Nancy Wolcott (Jeff Donnelly); as well as many in-laws, nieces and nephews, friends and extended family around the country. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Evelyn Hayden, brother, Bob Hayden, sisters, Marilynn Martin and Doloros Johnson, and dear friend, Bill George.

Family and friends may visit with the family on Sunday, March 1, 2020 from 2-4 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4031 Clyde Park SW, Wyoming. There will be a short service celebrating Jim’s life at 4 pm following the visitation.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be given in Jim’s name to Faith Hospice, as they facilitated his last wish of being able to be cared for at home and spend time with his dog, McKinley.