Harold Hayes

Harold James Hayes, 74, of Idaho Falls, passed away June 25, 2025, at Idaho Falls Community Hospital.

Harold was born July 27, 1950, in Clinton, Oklahoma, to Keith W. Hayes and Opal Elizabeth Hayes. He grew up in Ririe, Idaho, and graduated from Ririe High School.

On May 8, 1971, he married Shirley Adamson Gooden. They were later divorced.

On July 4, 1991, he married his true love, Janet M. Jensen, in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Harold and Janet made their home in Idaho Falls for the last 34 years.

Harold worked for the INL for most of his working life. During that time, he worked for Westinghouse, Newport News, Fluor Idaho and CH2M.WG, Idaho. He was a hard worker and received many awards. He retired at the age of 67.

He spent many hours remodeling his home out in the country, which he loved. He adored the pets that he and Janet acquired throughout the years. He enjoyed Harley’s, fast cars, and hot rods. He did custom paint jobs and body work. He could build anything, and it was always built well. He restored a 1950 Chevy, and modified it and chopped the top, frenched in the tail lights, lowered the body, and painted it. It was, and still is, a beautiful Harold original. Harold had a big heart and a loving nature. He was an amazing husband, father, and grandfather.

He will be remembered by his family as being kind, compassionate, and the most loving husband, father, and brother. He will be dearly missed.

Harold is survived by his wife, Janet Hayes of Idaho Falls, ID; son, Christopher (Maggie) Hayes; son, Nicholas (Candace) Hayes; stepson, Brian (Laura) Jensen; stepdaughter, Susan (Bob Burge) Holt; sister, Patsy (Marvin) Sharp; sister, Arlene (John) Newman; brother, John (Lisa) Hayes; 10 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Keith and Opal Hayes; brother, Sonny Hayes; nephew, John Newman; stepson, Darren B. Holt; mother-in-law, Phyllis Madison; and brother-in-law, Veral Thorn.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a local animal shelter or American Heart Association.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, July 27, 2025, at Papa Tom’s Pizza, 1830 S. Woodruff Ave. It will be casual dress and pizza and drinks will be served in the back room.