Gene Leroy Hayes

Gene was born on August 6, 1940, in his parents’ home south of Lebanon in Smith County, Kansas, to Arnold LeRoy Hayes and Anelia Shearer Black Hayes.

Growing up on the family farm in north-central Kansas, Gene attended the one-room schoolhouse in Cora, Kansas, through the eighth grade before graduating from Smith Center High School with the Class of 1958. His love of the outdoors and wildlife led him to Fort Hays State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology with an emphasis in Wildlife Management in 1963.

On August 7, 1960, Gene married Lois Darlene Lehmann. Together they welcomed two children, Michelle Rae Hayes and Michael Gene Hayes. Later in life, Gene married Linda Glee Heide Nga, formally from Smith Center, on September 4, 2004, and welcomed two stepsons, Jawal Mohammed Nga and Jehad Mohammed Nga. Gene and Linda shared 22 wonderful years together.

Following college graduation, Gene and his young family moved to the Kansas City area, where he began his professional career as an Inspector with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration from 1963 to 1964. He then entered the pharmaceutical industry, as a Pharmaceutical Representative with Warren-Teed Pharmaceutical from 1964 to 1970 in Kansas City, Missouri. In 1970, he joined Merrill National Laboratories, where his leadership abilities earned him the position of Cleveland District Manager in 1975.

In 1977, Gene accepted the position of Regional Field Manager with BASF Wyandotte Corporation, relocating his family to Detroit, Michigan. Although his corporate career was successful, Gene possessed an entrepreneurial spirit that ultimately called him home.

In 1981, Gene returned to Kansas City with a dream of owning his own business. On December 7, 1981, he opened a Sir Speedy Printing Center franchise in North Kansas City, Missouri. In 1996, Gene made the decision not to renew the franchise license, choosing instead to become independent and rename the company ProPrint. Through determination, exceptional customer service, and an unwavering work ethic, he built a business that became a trusted partner for countless local businesses and organizations. His commitment to quality and his genuine care for his customers established relationships that endured for decades. Today, his legacy continues as his children proudly carry on the family business, operating ProPrint with the same values, integrity, and dedication that Gene instilled from the very beginning.

Outside of work, Gene found his greatest joy outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time in nature. He was also a lifelong runner, a passion that began in high school and remained with him throughout his life. Even at 85 years old, Gene could still be found out on his regular runs. His discipline, determination, and appreciation for an active life inspired everyone who knew him.

Gene believed in doing things the right way, treating people with respect, and never shying away from hard work. Whether in his professional career or personal life, he led by example through integrity, kindness, and quiet determination.

He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Linda; his daughter, Michelle (John) Radcliffe; his son, Michael (Tami) Hayes; his stepsons, Jawal (Janelle) Nga and Jehad Nga; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many other cherished family members and friends whose lives were enriched by his love, wisdom, and steadfast presence.

In addition to his parents, Arnold and Anelia Hayes, Gene was preceded in death by his brother, Gary Hayes; his sister, Peggy Cole; and his first wife of 41 years, Lois Hayes.

Gene’s life was one of hard work, devotion to family, and a commitment to serving others. He will be remembered for his warm smile, generous heart, entrepreneurial spirit, unwavering determination, and the lasting impact he made on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

He passed away suddenly doing something he loved, living an active life that reflected his determination and appreciation for every day. His memory will forever be treasured by those who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at White Chapel Funeral Home and Cemetery, 6600 NE Antioch Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64119. Service details will be announced by the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Parkville Nature Sanctuary, in memory of Gene Hayes. To donate online, https://www.friendsofpns.org/donate.html or make checks payable to Friends of Parkville Nature Sanctuary, and send to PO Box 12103, Parkville, MO 64152.