Clarence Edward Hays

Clarence Edward Hays, age 84, of Elgin, died Friday, September 22, 2006 at St. Alphonsus Hospital in Boise, Idaho. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at the Elgin Cemetery. Viewing will be held on Tuesday from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. at Daniels Chapel of the Valley.
A dinner will follow at the Elgin Community Center for family and friends.

Mr. Hays was born on October 7, 1921, the son of Luther and Ellen (Bennett) Hays in Baker, Oregon. During his early years the family lived in Missouri, Washington, Idaho and Oregon. In 1942 he enlisted in the United States Navy and served in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. He was honorably discharged in 1945. After his discharge he returned to Union County and on September 2, 1951 he married Beverly Case in Elgin. He worked as a mill worker for Boise Cascade until retiring in June of 1984.

Mr. Hays was a member of the Local Chapter 2910 Carpenter's and Jointer's Union, the VFW, the Elgin Masonic Lodge, the Knights of Pythias, the Rockwall Grange and was an Elgin Volunteer Firefighter. He enjoyed gardening, camping and woodworking. He was a devoted family man and attended all his grandchildren's athletic events.

Survivors include his wife, Beverly Hays; children, Jerry Hays, Dee Dee and Duke McClune, Gail and Eddie Toney, Denise and Don Ludwig and Jennifer and Rick Smith, all of Elgin; sister, Bert Stephens of Kooskie, Idaho; brothers, Ben Hays and Charles Hays, both of Elgin; 15 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Oliver Hays and sister Bea Shaffer.

Those who wish may make contributions in memory of Mr. Hays to the Elgin High School Athletic Fund in care of Daniels Chapel of the Valley, 1502 7th Street, La Grande, Oregon 97850.