A man who touched many lives in the Keswick area with his great sense of humour, love of nature and passion for life has died, aged 83.
Malcolm Hayes was a pillar of both the town and local community and will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.
Born in Thornthwaite, Malcolm spent the early part of his life in the village but moved the short distance to Keswick when he was 13.
And for the rest of his life, Malcolm – who died peacefully on July 29 – was an active member of the local community.
For more than 50 years he worked as a joiner at F&W Greens, but he was also a part-time fireman and an enthusiastic volunteer for the Keswick Jazz Festival, the Keswick Lions and The Osprey Watch.
Born in 1938, to Harry and Edith Hayes, Malcolm was raised at “Seldom Seen” in Thornthwaite with his brothers Dennis and Raymond.
Having moved to Keswick, he joined F&W Greens as an apprentice at 15.
At 18 he joined up for National Service, but just prior to this he met his first wife Pat.
They were married in 1962 and moved to Greta Hamlet two years later. The couple had two daughters – Julie and Linda – who would become the most important part of Malcolm’s life.
As well as being a devoted dad, he was a keen fell walker, runner and gardener. Indeed gardening and wildlife were twin passions throughout his life.
When Pat was taken ill, Malcolm became a full-time carer until her death in 2013.
He subsequently married Pam and gained a stepdaughter and step grand-daughter.
They survive him, as do his two daughters and grandchildren from his marriage to Pat.
The family would like to thank those who attended the funeral at Thornthwaite, and for all the lovely cards, flowers, and messages.
They would also like to thank all those who donated to Parkinson’s UK.
