Leroy Raymond Hayes

June 19, 1929 — March 19, 2025

Leroy Hayes

Service Details

Leroy Raymond Hayes passed away peacefully in his home on March 19, 2025 at the age of 95 after living a long-fulfilled life. He was born on June 19, 1929 in Webster City, Iowa to Blanche (Nelson) Hayes and Warren Hayes who instilled in him the values of hard work and integrity that would guide him throughout his life. Leroy was raised with his nine brothers: Harlan, Clifford, Robert, Roger, Russell, Gary, Eugene, Aubrey “Steve” and Teddy on a farm near Woolstock, Iowa.

After graduating from Webster City High School, Leroy proudly served in Company E, 133rd Infantry, Iowa National Guard from 1948 to 1952. He also worked as a veterinary assistant before transitioning to the grain industry at the Highview Cooperative elevator. He managed grain elevators in Belmond, Hampton, Prairie City, and Morrison/Reinbeck. In 1966, Leroy was honored to be a member of one of the first U.S. midwestern agricultural groups allowed to travel to Russia, including an invitation to visit the Kremlin. During his retirement, Leroy enjoyed traveling as a consultant for Volunteers in Overseas Cooperative Assistance (VOCA). His travels took him to Africa, Europe, Asia and several countries in and around the former Soviet Socialist Republic. He was honored to serve on the board of directors for The Lincoln Savings Bank. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and high respect. His work improved the lives of many around the world.

Leroy married Karen Lee Warman on September 15,1956 and together they raised 5 children. Following their retirement, Karen and Leroy moved to Urbandale, Iowa where they enjoyed many hobbies and activities. Leroy was very proud to have successfully passed all exams and certifications required for his private pilot’s license. He was a Mason and 65-year member of Preston Lodge #218 in Prairie City, and was a member of Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines. He enjoyed fishing and hunting with his family, and restoring his Model T car to drive in parades. Leroy was an avid lawn care specialist and was well known for creating a variety of concoctions designed to produce the thickest, greenest grass, and most abundant crops. He loved raising grapes and several varieties of apples in his backyard orchard and was always generous about sharing the bounty of his harvest with neighbors, friends and family. Leroy was very knowledgeable about stocks and enjoyed following the US stock market throughout his life. He and Karen loved traveling overseas, with England being their favorite country to visit. They also traveled the state of Iowa to help Karen promote eggs for the Iowa Egg Council.

Leroy is survived by his children, Bruce (Carlene) Hayes, Jeanine (Sam) Kain, Bryan Hayes, Brent (Joy Olson) Hayes and Douglas (Jennifer) Hayes; grandchildren, Travis Kain, Alexandria Hayes, Barret Hayes, Zacharey Hayes, Elizabeth Hicks, Lauren Austin, Mitchell Hayes, Emma Hayes, Preston Hayes and Andrew Hayes; great-grandchild, Harrison Hayes; his brothers, Russell Hayes and Ted Hayes; sisters-in-law, Jeri Hayes, Janet Hayes, Beverly Hayes, Linda Warman, and Connie (Lurlin) Hoelscher; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Karen; infant daughter, Julie LeRae; and 7 of his brothers.

A private service will be held for Leroy, honoring his wishes for an intimate farewell. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to the charity of your choice and condolences expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

The family extends a special thank you to Debbie Siemer and her children, Alex, Stephanie, Hannah, Jacob and Michael, whose kindness and dedication allowed Leroy to remain in the comfort of his own home until his passing.

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