James J. “Jim” Hayes

James J. “Jim” Hayes

Solon

James J. “Jim” Hayes, 92, of Solon, passed away peacefully on Friday, Feb. 10, 2023, at the Solon Care Center. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Solon. Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, with Fr. Charles Fladung presiding. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Brosh Chapel and The Avacentre in Solon is in charge of arrangements.

James was born Sept. 5, 1930, in Monticello, the son of James and Claire Hayes. He graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Monticello. James was united in marriage to Mona Lawlor on Sept. 16, 1950, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids. He had a long working career with the AAA Motor Club of Iowa beginning in 1957. He held numerous management positions, and during the last 10 years of his career, he was the state group manager, retiring in 1995. Several of Jim’s projects for Iowa were used nationally by AAA. Jim served in the U.S. Army Reserves for many years and was a 60-year member of the American Legion. Jim and beloved wife, Mona, the love of his life, traveled to many unique destinations. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, writing, playing cards and, most of all, spending time with his family. He was a longtime volunteer with Mended Hearts at Mercy Medical Center, Cedar Rapids, as well an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, serving as lector and usher.

James is survived by his wife, Mona, of over 72 years: his children, Steven (Angie) Hayes, Michael Hayes, Julie (Mike) Kasparek, Chris (Linda) Hayes and Jeff (Christina) Hayes; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; as well as niece and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jack (Alice) Hayes; sisters, Joan (Ivan) Pihl and Ann Hayes.

Memorials may be directed to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or to Hospice of Mercy in his name.

P.S. Thanks to the great people at Solon Retirement Village.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.broshchapel.com.