Eugene "Gene" Francis Hayes, Sr.

Our beloved father, Eugene Francis Hayes, 87, of Caldwell, Idaho, was born on August 14,1938, in Nampa, Idaho, and passed away unexpectedly on September 11, 2025.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Virginia T. Hayes; with whom he shared 68 wonderful years of marriage; his children, Eugene F. Hayes Jr, Dana Wheeler (Loren), and Georgia Shetler (Jeff); his sister, Ellen Starcevic; and his 15 grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Buelah Hayes; his siblings, Jim, Joe, Barbara, and Sharon; his daughter, Ginger Hayes; and his sons, James Hayes and Shawn Hayes.

Born and raised on a dairy and crop farm in Nampa, Idaho, Gene’s life was deeply rooted in agriculture. He attended Scism School before graduating from Nampa High School in 1956, and shortly after enlisted in the Army National Guard, where he proudly served at Fort Lewis, Washington.

Over the years, Gene built a respected career in the seed industry, working with Charter Research, Musser Seed, and Rogers Bros. before founding his own businesses: Charter Seed Company (1992–2022) and Charter Packaging (1999–2022). He especially loved his family business and worked closely with several family members who continue to carry on his legacy. In his later years, Gene also stayed active in business with two close friends through a real estate investment and development company.

Gene was a larger-than-life presence, known for his quick wit, big laugh, and constant joking around. He loved being on a tractor, playing golf, and spending time with friends over coffee. Nothing brought him more joy than gathering with family for cookouts and preparing the swimming pool for his grandchildren and planting a pumpkin patch each year for them to enjoy. Most of all, he was devoted to his wife, caring for her with love and dedication throughout their long marriage. His love for his family, his work, and his community will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

A Rosary and viewing will be held from 5:00 - 8:00 pm at Flahiff Funeral Chapel in Caldwell on Wednesday, September 24, 2025; rosary recital will begin at 7:00 pm. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in Caldwell on Thursday, September 25, 2025, followed by burial at Canyon Hill Cemetery.