Michael Hayes, age 73, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, passed away peacefully into eternal life on September 4, 2026, with his loving wife, Janet, by his side.

Mike was born on November 15, 1952, in Long Beach, California, to Al and Barbara Hayes. On May 1, 1971, he married Marilyn Peacock, with whom he shared 12 years of marriage and raised two sons. Mike later married Janet Jelinek on May 12, 1984, and together they shared 42 beautiful years of marriage and partnership.

A dedicated patriot, Michael served in the United States Air Force for 20 years. Following his military service, he returned to school to earn his associate’s degree in computer science. He then transitioned to civil service, where he worked faithfully until his retirement in December 2015.

Mike was a man of many passions. He was an avid outdoorsman and hobbyist who thoroughly enjoyed golfing, gold panning, skiing, hunting, fishing, and woodworking. His love for aviation shone through his time spent flying remote-controlled airplanes, attending airshows, and piloting gliders both in real life and on his simulator. Above all else, Mike treasured his family and deeply valued every moment he spent with them.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janet; brothers, Gary (Terri) and Patrick (Lisa Marie); his sons, Choe (Tiffany) and Jason (Teri); his three grandchildren, Ella, Macie (fiancé, Corey Howland), and Rogen; and his great-grandchild, Colson Howland.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Barbara; his sister, Debbie; his brother-in-law, Fred; and his nephew, Jimmy.

Service & Reception Details

· Military Honors Burial: Friday, September 18, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Cheyenne National Cemetery.

· Reception: A reception will follow immediately at Mondello’s. The family kindly requests that guests bring their favorite pictures of Mike to the reception so everyone can share and enjoy his memory over the years.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Michael’s honor to the American Cancer Society.