Hays, Lee Ivan passed away peacefully surrounded by family March 31st, 2025, at the age of 76.

Preceded in death by parents Orella and Enoch Hays of Anoka, and Sisters Barbara and Audrey, twin brother Leo and Wife Mary (Durand). Lee was one of eight siblings: Jimmy (Jeanene), Audrey (Darrell), Leo, Barbara, Ira (Ann), Nina (Dale) and Mary (John).

As a teenager Lee worked at Malaman's Truck farm in Andover where he met his future wife, Mary Durand, whom he later married and stayed with until her passing in 2023. He graduated from Anoka High School in 1967 and joined the Army where he served 2 tours in Vietnam. After returning home Lee earned a Diploma from Anoka Technical College in Auto Mechanics and a Certification in Welding. Lee worked most of his life and retired from Hoffman Engineering where he made many lifelong friends. He raised his children Adam and Angela in Nowthen where he lived until 2024. He loved spending time at the cabin, playing cards, cooking, bowling, golfing, hunting, fishing, helping others, doing charity collections and more. A

Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, April 25th at 11am with a visitation from 10am 11am at Thurston DeShaw Funeral Home 13817 Jay Street N.W. Andover, Mn. A luncheon will follow the services at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers please consider making a small donation to a local organization of your choosing. Thurston-DeShaw Funeral Home Andover, 763-767-7373 www.thurston-deshaw.com