Rosann M. Hayes

Rosann Maria Hayes (McKeown) of Cascade Township, MI passed away surrounded by her family on Sunday, December 17th after a courageous battle with cancer.

Rose was born May 3, 1947, to David and Peal McKeown in Middleville, MI. After graduating from Thornapple Kellogg High School in 1965 she went on to study Elementary Education at Western Michigan University.

In 1968, she wed the love of her life, Steven Hayes, and they built a home filled with kindness and laughter where they raised their daughter Karen and son Keith.

Rose had an authentic rapport with children that led her to a 40-year career teaching in the Wyoming Public Schools and at the Grand Rapids Child Discovery Center. After retiring from the classroom, Rose and Steven went on to own and operate H & H Driving Service for 16 years.

People are what mattered most to Rose. Her family was incredibly important to her, and she was a devoted friend, a generous volunteer, a sympathetic ear, and helping hand to many.

Rose took time to enjoy the art of living. She delighted in watching the sun set over Lake Michigan. She was an avid reader, enjoyed the symphony, practiced Pilates, and had a lifelong love of animals.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Samuel, and his partner Sally.

She will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Steven Hayes; daughter, Karen (Kevin) Wisner; son, Keith (Kate) Hayes; grandchildren, Marylee, Hannah, Samuel, Leo, Joseph, and Gennavieve; brother, Andrew (Julie) McKeown; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

The family will receive visitors on Wednesday, December 27th from 4-7 pm at Metcalf and Jonkhoff Funeral Services. A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church Grand Rapids on Thursday, December 28, at 11 am.

In memory of Rose, her family invites donations to be made to her favorite nonprofit TV channel, WGVU PBS.

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