It is with love and gratitude that we celebrate the life of Richard Paul “Rick” Hays.

Born on November 5, 1951, to Chet and Phyllis Hays in Greeley, Rick grew up in Johnstown and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1969. He later attended Western State College and the University of Northern Colorado.

He passed away on July 6, 2026.

On August 22, 1971, he married the love of his life, Sally, beginning a lifelong partnership built on devotion, faithfulness, and unconditional love. Together, they were blessed with three sons: Ryan Paul, Neal Michael, and Russell Todd.

As a proud third-generation owner of the Hays Market family business, Rick dedicated much of his adult life to serving his community. He took great pride in his work and, in later years, found comfort in knowing his sons were prepared to continue the family legacy when his health no longer allowed him to remain active in the business.

Outside of work, Rick embraced life's simple pleasures. He loved fishing with friends, gardening, yard work, and enjoying a competitive game of snooker. His homemade green chili and fresh salsa, made from vegetables grown in his own garden, became legendary among his family and friends.

In his later years, he enjoyed playing cribbage online, watching Jeopardy!, listening to audiobooks and music, and cherishing the daily visits from his best friend, Paul Palmer. Nothing brought him greater joy than watching his grandchildren grow and following their sporting events.

Above all, Rick will be remembered for his deep love of his family, strong work ethic, simple faith, quiet kindness, and moral integrity.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Chet and Phyllis Hays; and stepmother, Sandra Hays.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sally; his sons, Ryan, Neal (Angie), and Russell (Norena); his grandchildren, Addison (Hunter) Cook, Ethan, Olivia, Evan, Owen, Ava, Lauryn, and Enyssa Hays; his great-grandchildren, Collins and Sophia; his sisters, Candi (Paul) Winckel and Debbi (Bill) Eastwood; sister-in-law, Susan Wheeler; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Though he will be deeply missed, his love, wisdom, and example will continue to live on in the hearts of his family.

Rick’s Life Celebration will be held at 11 a.m. July 13 at Grace Community Church, 2033 W. South First Street, in Johnstown with a reception to follow.  Private family inurnment at the Johnstown Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to “Glenn A. Jones, M.D. Memorial Library” in honor of Rick’s lifelong love of reading or sent in care of Young’s Funeral Service, 102 E. Charlotte Street, Johnstown, CO 80534.

Condolences and memories may be shared at youngsfunerals.com.