DOVER - Robert Paul Hayes, Sr. passed away at home on Wed., Feb. 25, 2015, after battling heart disease for many years. Bob was born Sept. 17, 1929 in Dover to the late Joshua Paul Hayes and Mabel E. McGinnis. He graduated from Dover High School in 1947 and served in the United States Army from 1951 to 1952, stationed in Georgia and Massachusetts. Bob worked for Diamond State Telephone Company for 28 years, retiring in 1982 and was a proud member of the Telephone Pioneers, as well as a Sr. Olympian. He was an avid sports and nature lover and spent many hours in his woods. A jack-of-all-trades, in 33 years of retirement, he enjoyed his free time and never looked back. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother, Donald R. Hayes in 1996. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jean Duering Hayes; children, Marsha H. VanderVeen of Dover, Marty A. Hayes (Geoffrey Egan of Guthriesville, Pa.) of Magnolia, Robert P. Hayes, Jr. of Frederica and Mabel Jean Hayes of Frederica; grandchildren, Amanda J. Chadwick and her husband Silas of Montgomery, Ala., Katelyn J. Hayes of Camden, Lon M. Fluman IV of Dover, Jacqueline M. Heldorfer of Frederica; and great-grandson, Jase J. Kromka. A memorial service will be held 2 P.M., Sun., Mar. 1, 2015 at Torbert Funeral Chapel South, 1145 E. Lebanon Road (Rt.10), Dover. Friends may call one hour prior. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to the Kent County SPCA, 32 Shelter Circle, Camden, DE 19934 or your favorite animal charity. Letters of condolences may be sent and guest book signed at www.torbertfuneral.com