Richard "Rich" Hayes
March 8, 1947 ~ July 30, 2024
Born in:
Pueblo, Colorado
Resided in:
Pueblo, Colorado
Richard (Rich) Hayes, age 77, of Pueblo West, Colorado, was born on March 8, 1947, to Verle and Alma Dale Hayes. He passed away peacefully on July 30, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. Richard dedicated his life to serving his community through his work in water and wastewater utilities, a career that spanned over four decades.
He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Carolyn Hayes, his two devoted daughters, Cheri (Chad) Williams and Lori (Jeff) Lopez, and six cherished grandchildren: Averie, Walker, Camrie, and Jaylie Williams, and Landyn and Liam Lopez. He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his community, his faith, and the natural world he loved so much.
Richard began his career in utilities as a summer job and rose to become the Utilities Director at Pueblo West Metro District, where he spent 32 years. His passion for ensuring safe and reliable water services led him to his final role as Executive Director of the Colorado Rural Water Association, where he made a lasting impact on rural communities across the state for 15 years. Additionally, he assisted in managing Avondale’s water and wastewater systems.
A man of faith, Richard attended church throughout his life and was a devoted Christian who professed Jesus as his Savior. His faith was a guiding force in his life, shaping his character and his dedication to serving others.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Richard was a dedicated outdoorsman, a passion that took root in his youth as a Boy Scout, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He cherished time spent camping, fishing, hunting, skiing, ATV-ing, and car racing, sharing these adventures with family and friends.
A memorial service to honor Rich’s life will be held at The Avenue Church, 3030 Thatcher Ave., on Friday, August 23rd, at 2:00 p.m., with a reception to follow. Donations may be made to the AWANA program at The Avenue, reflecting Rich’s desire for children to study the Word at an early age.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Rich Hayes, who served as the Executive Director of the Colorado Rural Water Association for 14 years. Rich was not just a leader but a source of joy and positivity in our daily lives. His great sense of humor and his ability to make us laugh made coming to work a pleasure. Rich was highly knowledgeable about water and wastewater, and he was always eager to share his expertise with others, especially through training and mentorship of operators.
Rich’s love for people and his family was evident in everything he did. He took pride in sharing family photos with the office, and he was always genuinely interested in hearing about our own families. His kindness, willingness to help, and ability to listen made him an exceptional leader and colleague.
Rich will be missed. Sending our deepest condolences to the Hayes family during this difficult time.
With sympathy,
The Staff of Colorado Rural Water Association
Am so sorry to about Rich. I grew up in Fowler with Carolyn. Sending prayers and hugs to Carolyn and family. Bev (Smith) Kochevar