Obituary of John Patrick Hayes

John Patrick Hayes, 67, an Irish boy from south Buffalo, New York, passed away unexpectedly, May 22, 2023. 

John was born September 6, 1955, to John “Jack” and Elizabeth Ann Hayes (nee Mutka). 

Upon graduation from Bishop Timon High School, John joined the United States Army to serve his country during a time of war. He served all over the world, including the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Africa, Iraq, and Afghanistan among others. Early in John’s career, while stationed at Ft Gordon, Georgia, he met Winkie, his "Bean", who is the love of his life, best friend, and woman who would remain by his side through everything.

John served honorably in the Army’s Military Police Corps, culminating his Military career after twenty-four years, many of which he served as a Special Agent with Criminal Investigation Command. John served in Operation Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. John continued his commitment to serving our Nation after the Army by dedicating more than twenty years as a Department of Defense civilian in federal law enforcement, finally retiring April 28, 2023.

John’s selflessness, compassion, dedication to duty, and willingness to provide, support, and above all, love, left a lasting impact on all who knew him. John’s legacy of strength will be forever treasured, and his passing leaves an unfillable void in the hearts of those who loved him.

John was a Buffalo sports enthusiast and relished in cheering on his beloved Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres. He was a zealous air guitarist, steering wheel drummer, and singer of classic rock songs for anyone who was near. John was a passionate golfer, and particularly enjoyed winning against his brothers, sons, and grandsons.

John was a devoted brother to the late Carol Scotch (late Peter), Michael F. (Ellen) (late Louise), Thomas J. (Susan), Robert J. (Kathleen), Gerald P., James D., Timothy P. and Charles E. (Elaina) Hayes; and numerous loving nieces and nephews.

John was a loving, caring and devoted husband, father, and Gramps who is survived by his wife of forty-seven years, Winklyn; sons, Brian (Nicole) and Timothy (Catherine); grandchildren, Aiden, Alexander, Layla, and Julian.

Visitation, 9:00AM, Monday, June 5, 2023, The Springs Funeral Services-North, 6575 Oakwood Boulevard, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80923. 

Memorial Service, 10:30AM, Monday, June 5, 2023, The Springs Funeral Services-North, 6575 Oakwood Boulevard, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80923. 

Graveside Service, with military honors, 1:00PM, Monday, June 5, 2023, Pikes Peak National Cemetery, 10545 Drennan Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80925. 

In lieu of flowers, his family is requesting memorial contributions be made to the Children’s Hospital of Colorado.