In Memory
Heinz Wilhelm Hayen
May 20, 1954 ~ June 9, 2025 71 Years Old
Heinz Wilhelm Hayen, known affectionately as Heinz to his friends and family, passed into the arms of the Lord on June 9, 2025, at his home in Granger, IN, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's Disease. Born on May 20, 1954, in the quaint village of Brockzetel, Germany, Heinz's journey was marked by a steadfast commitment to his faith, his family, and his community.
He earned his Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the University of Notre Dame. His career was a reflection of his analytical mind and strong work ethic, as he was a supervisor for McDonald's Corporation and an accountant for KADA Partnership. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Hayen Enterprises, Inc., where, as principal owner, he built a family-owned business founded on quality and integrity.
A devoted husband to Eileen (Fegan) Hayen and a loving father to Stephanie Hayen, Katherine (David) Ganser, Christopher (Sierra Bishop) Hayen, and Jason (Maria Pereira) Hayen, Heinz's legacy is also cherished by his four grandchildren: Caelynn Hayen, Adrie Ganser, Emma Ganser, and Ryder Hayen. His role as a family man was characterized by his generous nature, as he was always ready to lend a helping hand or share his wisdom.
Heinz's Christian faith was the cornerstone of his life. His love for God was evident in the way he lived—serving others, practicing kindness, and fostering a sense of community. He served two extended terms as board president of St. Paul Lutheran Church, South Bend. He was active in the church's Notre Dame concession stand, choir, fellowship club, and youth group activities for years.
The camaraderie and competition of sports were among Heinz's greatest joys. Whether he was swinging a golf club, serving on the racquetball court, swinging a bat in softball, or making strikes in bowling, he relished the physical and mental challenge of each game. His passion for sports extended to being an avid fan of Notre Dame football and the Chicago Cubs. Playing cards, board games and other hands-on activities were among his passions.
Heinz's life was a tapestry woven with threads of generosity, analytical thinking, and a knack for fixing anything that came his way. He approached life with practicality and warmth that endeared him to all. Those who knew him best will remember his ready smile, his thoughtful advice, and the quiet way he went about making the world a better place.
As we bid farewell to Heinz Wilhelm Hayen, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and love. We take joy in the knowledge that his spirit lives on in the memories we carry and in the impact he made on the lives of those he touched.
In his passing, Heinz leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and an unwavering commitment to the values he held dear. We take comfort in the belief that he has found peace in the presence of our Heavenly Father and that his soul rests in eternal joy.
A memorial service for Heinz will be held at 6:00pm on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 51490 Laurel Road, South Bend, IN. Interment of Heinz’s ashes will be held privately at Highland Cemetery, South Bend, IN. Palmer Funeral Home—Welsheimer North Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church, 51490 Laurel Road, South Bend, IN 46637; Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545; Resurrection Lutheran Academy, 6840 Nimtz Parkway, South Bend, IN 46628.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com
6/17/2025 djb
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