Helen Hayes

Helen "Helaine" Hayes, age 84, of Marshall died Thursday, April 3, 2008 at her home.Mrs. Hayes was born on October 31, 1923 in Albion to Gregory and Agatha (Teschenko) Palchun. She was a graduate of Albion Washington Gardener High School, class of 1942. On November 27, 1943, she married Lester Hayes. He preceded her in death on August 6, 1980. The couple moved to the Marshall area in 1948.Helaine had been employed as a Secretary working at Gill Manufacturing, Win Schuler''s, and State Farm Insurance Co. She also worked for Calhoun County in the Clerk''s office and with the Count Board of Commissioners.Helaine was an active member of the Marshall United Methodist Church, the TEHE Extension Club and the Senior Tour Club of Battle Creek. She also volunteered at the Oaklawn Hospital working in the gift shop. She enjoyed attending exercise classes, making crafts, fine needle work, crocheting, gardening and bowling. Helaine enjoyed traveling, especially taking cruises. Her family remembers her as an excellent baker, making wonderful pies.Helaine was a first generation American citizen and was very proud of Russian heritage. She had many fond memories of growing up in Albion with its diverse community makeup.She is survived by her daughter, Dianne (Sanford "Sandy" Brink of Richmond, VA; son, Ronald Hayes of Rockford, MI; 4 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by sisters, Rosie Klimovich and Katherine Bouldin.A funeral service to celebrate the gift of her life was held 11:00 AM Monday, April 14, 2008 at the Marshall United Methodist Church with Reverend Len Schoenherr officiating. Interment followed in Oakridge Cemetery. Arrangements are by the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home, Marshall, Michigan.Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to the American Red Cross, Oaklawn Hospital Auxiliary, the American Cancer Society or the Marshall United Methodist Church. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.