James M. “Jim” Hayes age 58, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on May 23, 2025, at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Jim’s life, a private family Celebration of Life is being held.  Burial will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on January 31, 1967, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Gerald and Joanne (Rossman) Hayes.  He enjoyed each day he was given and made the most out of the life he had.  Jim was a proud graduate of Dubuque Senior High School and eventually found his way into the carpentry trade.  He invested the majority of his career with Callahan Construction, but also worked at Wickes Lumber Company and Anderson Window and Door for a time.  Jim made many friends over the years and always found time to relax when the workday was done.

Jim was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and never missed a game if it was possible.  He also spent countless hours working on his baseball cap collection over the years and found great joy when his newest acquisition made it into the rotation.  He possessed an outgoing spirit and combined with his friends disposition; it was difficult not to be friends with Jim.  Sadly, he has been called home much too soon for those who knew and loved him to contend with.  His legacy of loving life and embracing the day will surely live on in the memories of his family and friends.  Thank you, Jim, for never attempting to be someone other than yourself and may you find peace from your earthly battles today as we wait patiently to see your smiling face once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jim include,

his adored daughter,
Kayla (Nick) Bechen, Dubuque, IA;

his beautiful newborn grandson,
Theo Bechen, Dubuque, IA;’

his siblings,
Michael (Patricia) Hayes, Dubuque, IA,
Karen Kutsch, Dubuque, IA,
and Lynn (Tom) Dotterweich, Dubuque, IA;

his brother-in-law,
Michael Avenarius, Dubuque, IA;

his sister-in-law,
Penny Koelher, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his companion of 20 years, Malia West; and his siblings, Deb Avenarius, Jerry Hayes, Jeff Hayes, and Dave Hayes.

Jim’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff in the Finley Hospital ICU for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Jim’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com