Charlie Hayes
Charles Frederick Hayes, 90, of Ludington, passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025.
Charlie was born on February 7, 1935, in Kalamazoo, the son of the late Frederick and Marjorie (Tessman) Hayes. He was a 1952 graduate of Kalamazoo Central High. He received his associate degree from Western Michigan University and later was drafted in the United States Army. He served during the Cold War, and had been stationed in Ft. Knox, and in Germany. In 1960, he was honorably discharged. On August 22, 1964, he married his forever love, Margaret (Sjoholm) Hayes. Charlie was an active member of Emanuel Lutheran, the Maritime Museum, and for 48 years as a club member at Western Michigan Old Engine Club.
Charlie was employed by Pandrol Jackson working as a hydraulic engineer. In 2006, after 35 years, he retired.
Beyond his professional life, Charlie had an array of hobbies that kept him busy and fulfilled. He was an avid woodworker and had a particular interest in mechanical musical instruments, steam engines, and farm equipment. His love for the outdoors was evident in his enthusiasm for camping, canoeing, and fishing, activities that he enjoyed throughout his life.
Charlie was known for his exacting nature, detail orientation, and his calm demeanor under pressure. He had a profound love for teaching and explaining his passion for engineering and building, which made him a well-liked figure among his family and friends. His curiosity about how things worked drove him to constantly seek ways to improve them.
Charlie is survived by his wife, Margaret Hayes; daughter, Deborah (Jerry) Black; son, Donald Hayes; grandchildren, Sarah (Evan) Chumbler, Anna Hayes, Emma Hayes; great-granddaughter, Anja Chumbler; a great-grandson, due in May of 2026; and sister, Sue Fischer.
Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Marjorie Hayes; sister, Marcia Bricker; and infant grandson, Michael Hayes.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at St Paul’s United Methodist Church in Riverton Township at 11 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. at the church. There will be a luncheon to follow at the church.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Mason County Historical Society or Western Michigan Old Engine Club.
Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services, www.GraceCremations.com.
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