Ernest Richard Hayden died peacefully at home on the lake, March 24, 2014 in Lake Ann, Michigan.

Ernie was born June 6, 1947 in Detroit, Michigan to Nancy (Downs) and Richard Hayden. He married Betty Jean Dluzin at St. Alfred Parish, Taylor, MI on February 28, 1970.

Ernie was a respected businessman and well known in the community. He and his wife owned and operated Ernie's Mobile Home Sales and Service in Traverse City. Ernie was a real character with a loving heart, he always brought a smile to your face. He was a caring man, a Good Samaritan, always helping others. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed it to the max – fishing, hunting, boating, and snowmobiling with family and friends. And, he was a good friend; a man of action, not just talk; a friend you could count on.

When you talked to Ernie you quickly knew that he loved his family. He adored his wife, children, and grandchildren, and always spoke with enthusiasm and pride of their deeds and accomplishments. He also let you know he was a Marine – once a Marine, always a Marine. He served our country as a Sergeant E-5 in the United States Marine Corps with a tour of duty in Vietnam.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Ernie leaves behind family and friends to cherish the memories of him. Family includes his wife Betty; his son Explosive Ordnance Disposalman First Class Brian and (Reaghan) Hayden United States Navy, Destin, FL; his daughter, Angela Hayden, Lake Ann, MI; and grandchildren Hayden Vendeville, Lake Ann, MI; and Lauren, Keenan, and Valen Hayden, Destin, FL. Family also includes sister Loretta Hayden, Traverse City, MI; brother Jim Hayden, Garden City, MI; stepmother Jeanette Hayden, Westland, MI; niece Laura Hayden and nephew Eric Hayden. Other family surviving includes sister-in-law Pat Dluzin and brother-in-law Stanley Dluzin; many aunts and uncles across the country; and several godchildren including Dr. Sara Landes, San Francisco, CA.

Visitation will be from 2 to 7 pm on Saturday, March 29, 2014 at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth, Traverse City, MI and include a Scripture Service led by Deacon Hoenscheid at 3 pm.