Margaret Hayes
Margaret Anne (Sjoholm) Hayes, 85, of Ludington, passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
Margaret was born on August 5, 1940, in Ludington to the late Frans and Anne (Stuart) Sjoholm. She was a 1958 graduate of Ludington High Schol. In 1962, she graduated from Albion College, earning her bachelor’s degree in math and physics. She truly was a woman ahead of her time. Upon graduation, she took her skills to IBM, where her first job was writing computer programs for the company. She continued working as a computer analyst/programmer for Pandrol Jackson, and Great Lakes Casting. In 2000, she retired from West Shore Computer Services in Scottville. Upon retirement she spent much of her time volunteering at the Mason County Historical Society, where she would input data for others to enjoy and learn about Mason County’s history.
On August 22, 1964, she married her beloved Charles “Charlie” Hayes. Together they shared over 60 memorable years together until his passing in December of 2025. She was a devout member of Emanuel Lutheran Church.
Margaret’s personal life was filled with a variety of hobbies that spoke to her vibrant and resourceful character. She was an avid knitter and sewer, often creating beautiful pieces for her family and friends. She found great pleasure in reading, a pastime that provided both relaxation and continuous learning. Her love for Old Western and Cowboy movies showcased her fondness for storytelling and the dramatic landscapes of the American West. Gardening and camping were also passions of Margaret, activities she cherished sharing with her beloved husband Charlie and their family, creating lasting memories in the great outdoors.
Margaret is survived by her 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; sister, Jeanne Kagey; stepmother Marilyn Sjoholm; and many nieces and nephews.
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, Frans and Anne Sjoholm; infant grandson, Michael Hayes; and brother, Emil Sjoholm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Mason County Historical Society.
Cremation has taken place, and the family will scatter Charlie and Margaret at a private family gathering in August.
Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services, www.GraceCremations.com.
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