Kenneth D. Hayes

Kenneth D. Hayes, 78, of San Diego, California, was taken away too soon on March 26, 2021. Ken was born on May 28, 1942, in Portland, Oregon. After graduating high school in 1960, he joined the United States Navy as a Radioman. Ken bravely served many tours for the Navy, including the Vietnam War. Having lived in many places around the world, he met his first love, Teresita (Tessie or Tess), in the Philippines. They were married in 1964 and celebrated 42 years of marriage before Tessie’s sudden passing in July of 2006.

After 27 years of service, Ken retired from the Navy at the rank of First-Class Petty Officer (E-6), in July of 1987. He received an honorable discharge and was always a patriot for his country. His Navy experience made him a perfect candidate for the United States Border Patrol, where he began a second career as a dispatcher in August of 1988. Ken was blessed to find love again, and married his current wife, Emelia (Meli), on February 14, 2009. Ken finally retired, for a second time, in March of 2012 after 24 years of service.

Ken was dedicated to all his roles in life. His work ethic was undeniable and evidenced by his long careers in service to his country. With his strong faith in God, he loved, and supported his family by cheering them on throughout all of life’s ups and downs. Ken’s optimistic attitude was remarkable. A favorite story of his positivity stemmed from a family trip from San Diego to Las Vegas, where Ken got lost, and drove through Arizona. The detour turned a 4-hour trip into 14 hours! Instead of being frustrated, Ken explained with a smile, and his notable chuckle, “I took the scenic route!" Ken managed to take the “scenic route” many times throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife Meli; his children Josie Mitchell, Lynn Murphy, David Hayes, and stepdaughter Sherri Hayward; sisters Pauline Elder-Homes and Diana Larson; granddaughters Tina Payton, Meagen Murphy, Alexandra Hayes, Abigail Murphy, and Isabel Hayes; great-grandchildren Lyric Payton, Harmony Payton, Cadence Payton, and Jaxson Hayes Merten. Ken was preceded in death by his first wife, Teresita, and their 2-year old son, Thomas Victor Hayes.

Ken will be forever missed and loved by all who knew him.