William H. “Bill” Hayes

Bill was raised in the Dunkirk area and was a 1964 graduate of Cardinal Mindszenty High School. Bill played basketball and was known by his fellow teammates as “Zeus” a nickname that stuck as he continued on playing in the military and college. Bill served our country during the Vietnam crisis. He was a Corporal in the U.S. Marines from 1964-1967. Bill was stationed on the U.S.S. Holland and received a National Defense Service Medal and a Good Conduct Medal Award. After his service in the U.S. Marines, Bill attended SUNY Fredonia where he studied Speech-Pathology and Audiology. Billy worked for the U.S. Postal Service for 38 years, where he last served and retired as Postmaster in the Portland, NY office.

Bill was a hard working, humble man, who was also a true gentleman. He put everyone first. Bill was a constant provider and would do anything for anyone. His love of family, faith, and service, were guiding forces and a part of his unwavering character.

Billy was a member and daily communicant of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. He also was a devout sports enthusiast. He could often be seen pacing back and forth, wearing a hole in the carpet, while vocally, and emphatically praying for a Buffalo Bills and a Notre Dame win. Bill loved music, dancing, and fine dining. Bill loved the company of his family and close friends. He had a charismatic way of passionately sharing stories with all of us. Bill will live on in all our hearts forever. Until we meet again, Bill, fly high with the angels.

Billy is survived by his wife, “the love of his life”, Laura (Diefenbach) Hayes; his daughter, Kerry (Ryan) Yerico; three stepchildren, Lisa Anello, Jayson Anello, and Julia Anello; his brother, E.J. (Sue) Hayes; his sister, Maureen (Tom) McTigue; four grandchildren, Mikaylee, Joslynn, Jaydan, and Hayden; and several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass which will be celebrated Saturday, June 29, 2019 at 10 a.m. in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. Military Honors will be accorded by the Dunkirk Joint Veterans Council Honor Guard. There will be no prior calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142. Arrangements are by the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.