James Hayes   (Counselor - Arthur Hill High School • Teacher - North Intermediate School)
1929 - 2023

James Joseph Hayes, 93, of Hemlock, Michigan and Bemidji, Minnesota left this world Saturday, April 22, 2023 from Neilson Place in Bemidji on his journey to help God. James was born October 12, 1929 in Saginaw, Michigan, the son of Frederick and Anna (Knight) Hayes.

He married the love of his life, Donna Jean Sagasser on June 14, 1952 and went on to serve with the US Army from 1952-1954 during the Korean War. Employed by the City of Saginaw School District for 35 years, Jim taught at North Intermediate School and served as a counselor at Arthur Hill High School. Volunteering at St. Mary's Hospital and Butman-Fish Library gave Jim great satisfaction and fishing with his sons and grandchildren always brought a big smile to his face. Having a passion for singing, Jim and Donna were members of the Germania Chorus, Ollies Follies and the Ascension Lutheran Church choirs.

Being a talented wood craftsman, Jim mastered the art of caning furniture. Jim also enjoyed traveling with his wife Donna, visiting all 50 States, Canadian Provinces as well as International trips. Jim was known by his family and friends to have the patience of a saint.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Hayes of Bemidji, MN, sons, Michael Christopher (Ann) Hayes of Bemidji, MN and Peter James (Dawn) Hayes of Silt, CO, grandsons, Christopher Ryan (Garnet) Hayes of Vancouver, WA, Justin Jacob (Anna) Hayes of Moorhead, MN, and Martin James Hayes of Fargo, ND, granddaughter, Shelby Dawn (Jason) Beitzel of Rifle, CO, great grandchildren, Esme Alexis Hayes of Moorhead, MN, Emerson James Hayes of Moorhead, MN, and Emily Mae Beitzel of Rifle, CO, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Chester C. Hayes, and sister, Elizabeth Dinse.

At Jim's request there will be no service but condolences and memories of Jim can be addressed to the family at 519 Pershing Ave. SE, Bemidji, MN 56601.