James Conrad Hayes

James Conrad Hayes, 96, passed away peacefully on Sunday afternoon, September 20, 2020 at his son’s residence in Granger, IN.

Born in Milwaukee on December 21, 1923, Jim was the oldest son of the late Matthew and Rosella (Heppe) Hayes. He was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Jeanette “Jean” Hayes, and his second wife of 27 years, Betty “Jean” Hayes, both of whom he cared for as they battled cancer.

He is survived by his son, Philip (Claire) Hayes; daughter, Janet Lawrence; grandchildren, Julie, Kristen, Lisa, and the late Jeannie; six great-grandchildren; brother, Bill Hayes; sister, Rosemary Mahoney; and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was a devout Catholic and volunteered in many capacities at church. He was very happy and thankful to spend the last three months of his life at home with his family in Granger, Indiana as he prepared for his journey to be with God. He maintained his sharp wit and sense of humor until the end.

Jim was a Navy Airman, serving his country in World War II as a radioman/gunner on a two-man plane stationed on the Island of Attu in the Pacific. He attended and loved Marquette University, where he graduated with a degree in business administration.  He was an avid lifetime fan of Marquette basketball and had season tickets to MU basketball games for many years. He had a long, successful career in sales of lithography and printed materials.

The family would like to thank the team at the Center for Hospice Care, especially nurse Laura, who gave great care and guidance for Jim while he stayed in Phil and Claire’s home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 3:00pm on Friday, September 25, 2020 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 2506 N. Wauwatosa Avenue, Wauwatosa, WI. Guests may visit with the family from 2:00-3:00pm on Friday at the church prior to Mass. Interment will take place at 10:00am on Saturday, September 26^th at Saint Kilian Cemetery, at the corner of Wilson and Union in Hartford, WI.

Memorial donations can be made to the CJ Heppe Memorial Scholarship Fund at Marquette University Advancement, PO Box 7013, Carol Stream, IL 60197-7013, and to Masses for James’ intentions.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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