Russell Wayne "Russ" Hayes, age 77, of Red Oak, Iowa, passed away Sunday, February 4, 2024, at his home. Russ was born August 27, 1946, in Montgomery County, Iowa, the son of George Howard and Bernice (Gourley) Hayes. He was raised in Red Oak where he attended school. Over the years he worked for the Mosaic Plant and later Wilson Concrete; the Derby gas station, Eveready Battery and retired from Dovel Refrigeration. Russ was united in marriage to Brenda Fort on January 1, 1982. This union joined two families into one. Their children: Tony, Rusty, Angie, Scott and Jenny welcomed a brother, Brett, to complete the family. Russ enjoyed camping, traveling, and spending time with his family. He was also an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan and Kansas City Chiefs fan.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife: Brenda Hayes; brothers: Leroy, Kenneth, George, Jr., and Warren; and sisters: Evelyn, Mary Margaret, and Laura. Left to cherish his memory are his children: Tony Hayes (Lori Dingel), Rusty Hayes (Christy), Angie Hayes (Bill Rigby), Scott Martin, Jenny Jackson, and Brett Hayes (Jessica); grandchildren: Reese Jackson, Heath Jackson, Blake Haidsiak, Lexi Gonzales, Walker Hayes, Cree Slough (Maddie), Jasmine Rigby, Caitlyn Walter (Matthew), Maddie Hayes, Aaron Jackson (Hannah), Erica Archibald (Tyler), and Rowyn Rigby ; great grandchildren: Declan, Davinia, James, Harper, and a baby boy on the way; siblings: Judy Wheeler, Linda Rogers (Greg), Marilyn Westover, Everett Hayes (Hazel), Jerry Hayes, Don Hayes, and Robert Hayes (Dottie); brothers-in-law: Curtis Fort (Carol), Lonnie Fort (Kathy), and Tony Fort (Jana); and many other relatives, friends, and special pup, Sadie.

A private graveside memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorials are suggested to the LaLa Project.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.