Richard Kenneth Hayward, age 63 years, passed away Saturday, April 19, 2014, while enjoying his passion of flying. He was born on February 24, 1951 in Bay City, the son of Kenneth and Rhea (Baumbach) Hayward. Rich had a decorated military career spanning more than 25 years, retiring from the U.S. Air Force in 2004. He also retired from General Motors Steering Gear, was a volunteer on the Portsmouth Twp. Fire Department and was a member of the Vassar Eagles Aerie #2380. Rich was an avid pilot and enjoyed flying, gardening, raising animals and spending time with his grandchildren. Surviving family include his wife, Lynn; children, John (fiancée Judy Yaworski) Hayward, Holly (Jed) Thomas, David (Jesse Hages) Hayward and Susan (David Clement) Doran; step-children, Nicole (Jeff) Sharp, Jamie (Kevin) Raymond and Tom Matako; grandchildren, Alysha (Rusty), Justine, Nicole, Madison, Ashton, Avery, Cole, Caitlyn, Carter, Landen, Hannah, Anthony and Hunter; a great-granddaughter, Mylie (and a granddaughter and a great-grandson on the way soon). Also surviving are his mother, Rhea Hayward; his brothers and sisters, Bill Hayward, Dianne (Robert) Zuzula, Ken (Donna) Hayward, Maureen (Eric) Spychalski and Mike (Tina) Hayward; many nieces, nephews and special friends Ken Starr and Judy Busha. Rich was preceded in death by a son, Richard; his father, Kenneth and grandparents, Floyd and Viola Baumbach. The family will greet friends on Thursday, April 24, 2014, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Penzien-Steele Funeral Home, 608 N. Madison Ave. in Bay City. The visitation will conclude at 7:00 p.m. with a Prayer Service. The Rev. Michael G. Stahl officiating. Cremation will follow the service and private interment will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to the wishes of the family.