Harold Hayes Service Information

Harold R, " Howie" Hayes, passed away on Friday, October 11^th, 2024, at the age of 74.  He was the son of the late Robert and Emmy (nee Bantzhaff), beloved brother of the late Robert S, and Richard. Born in 1950 in Stuttgart Germany. Howie took his first steps while he immigrated from Germany to the United States on the SS United States. The Hayes family lived from Pine Hill, NJ to Fishtown, finally calling Frankford their home and where the legend was created.

In 1958 he met the love of his life; the late Roseann (nee Szychulski), family lure has it he called her a bad name and grandmom made him go around the corner and apologize, love was sure in the air from that time on.

They were married in Feb 1971, which happened to be the year (I think) Howie started his legendary job working at Keebler’s at G and Hunting Park Aves. Stories still continue to this day, and  of all the hijinks that happened at Keebler’s. There he made lifelong friends who became family. Like the Siskay's who visited every week up until he passed. 

1979 bought great joy to Howie and Roseann, a son young Howie was born. Being born premature young Hal was at St Christopher's for months. Howie and Roseann would go every day to visit their son, while Roseann went inside; Howie could be found across the street at the taproom having some libations.

In 1985 Keebler’s closed, Howie was out of work. Ever persistent and with the help of Roseann's mouth torturing the local ward leader he was able to land another legendary job at PHA. Once again Howie met many people who would be his friend until the end. 

But his biggest joy in life was the birth of his 2 grandsons, Owen and Gabe. After they were born little Hal took a back seat to them. Howie became the doting grandfather, always bringing gifts for the boys and showing his friends the latest pics or videos of their achievements. 

Howie will be remembered for his fierce loyalty whether you were family or friend, if he was on your side that's all you needed. You didn't need any weapons ----- because he already had them with him. 

I would like to thank my cousin Krissy, who would take dad to his many appointments, and be there for me when I was stressed out ( I wouldn't  want to fight with anyone else). To Stacy, and the Flanigan Family who helped me when dad was at our house for a few months and continue to be there.  Uncle Rich , Aunt Linda, Kimmy and Richie, thank you for being at my side. All of  the Szychulski's, for all of their visits, texts and kind words. His Smedgy friends especially Gerry and Kathy who would visit every week. I Cannot forget Jen from Guardian Nurses for all of her help and compassion throughout all of this.   

Finally, a big thank you to the staff at River's Edge, (too many people to name)  who helped to relieve our stress burden and were always kind and attentive to all of his needs.

Just wanted to say dad I love you , thank you for showing me how life is and teaching me everything you know , don't worry about nuttin' I got everything taken care of. Now you can finally rest.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Friday, October 18^th from 8:30 to 10am at the Galzerano Funeral Home, 9304 Old Bustleton Avenue, Phila PA 19115.  His Funeral Mass will follow at 11am at Maternity BVM Church.  Interement St. Dominic’s Cemetery.  

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