Joseph Kennedy Hayes, 54, suddenly and unexpectedly passed away on March 9, 2019.

Joe was born January 24, 1965, in New Jersey, moved to his beloved Colorado at the age of four, and, aside from short periods spent in Key West, Florida and Princeton, New Jersey, never lived anywhere else. Joe graduated from Cherry Creek High School in 1982 and briefly attended Metro State University. Joe worked in many different industries, including owning a small business, working as a photogrammetrist, and most recently, working in the mortgage industry.

Joe was funny and friendly, full of opinions, and never met anyone he couldn’t engage in conversation. He was a steadfast and generous friend, a devoted son, and a loving brother. His stubbornness was legendary and epic, but so was his loyalty. Joe loved a good meal with family and friends, watching old episodes of Bonanza and Gunsmoke, and rooting for Denver’s sports teams (along with developing a fondness for the New England Patriots). He adored (and was adored by) his two nieces, and loved to give them books, puzzles and games aimed at older kids, because, he said, “they were geniuses.” Joe had a particular fondness for dogs, particularly large, friendly dogs that matched his outgoing and exuberant personality. Joe proudly boasted that dogs, cats, and children all loved him, and he was right.

Joe is survived by his mother and stepfather, Patricia Hayes and Tom Goodman; by his brothers Jim, John, Geoff(and his family), sister Mary, brother-in-law Mark Aguiar, nieces Patricia and Nora, special friend Jennifer Solbach and very special dog Gus..

A memorial celebration of life is scheduled for Saturday, March 23, at CU Denver South/Wildlife Experience, 10035 S Peoria Street, Parker CO 80134, from 2:00 to 5:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Denver Dumb Friends League or Ridge View Academy HS.

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