Joseph William Hayes, age 36 of Ellsworth, WI, passed away May 16, 2020 as a result of a single automobile accident. Joseph was born July 6, 1983 in Red Wing, MN to Lori Field and Richard Hayes. Joe graduated from Ellsworth High School, with the Class of 2002. Joe was adventurous in spirit, risking in daring activities, and living-on-the-edge. He became a talented mechanic, who enjoyed working for MAS Performance in Bay City for the last 3 years. Joe loved anything mechanical, building motors, tinkering on fast cars, and competing in demolition derbies. He also enjoyed snowmobiling. Although Joe presented a tough exterior, he truly had a kind and big heart for others. He loved his family, spending time with his brothers and sisters, and was always willing to do anything for anyone.

Joe will remain in the hearts of his father, Richard (Kim) Hayes of Ellsworth; mother, Lori (Rene) Hafkenscheid of Red Wing; siblings, Ryan (Nicole) Field of Red Wing, Elliot Field of Red Wing, Brianna Crosby of Red Wing, Ethan Schaumburger, and Paige Hayes of Ellsworth; nephews, Oliver, Ellow, and Tristan; niece, Riani; grandparents , John Losgaard of Beldenville, Ronald and Judith Place of Ellsworth; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Evelyn and Donald Hayes, and Barb Losgaard.

A Visitation (Respecting social distancing, encouraging the use of masks, and limiting 10 people at a time into the funeral home) will take place 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at O’Connell-Benedict Family Funeral Home in Ellsworth. A graveside service will be held 1:30 pm Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at the Diamond Bluff Cemetery.

Those wishing to send condolences to Joe’s family may direct them to his family, or to: The family of Joseph Hayes, O’Connell-Benedict Family Funeral Home, 130 N. Grant St., Ellsworth, WI 54011.

Funeral services are entrusted to the O’Connell-Benedict Funeral Home of Ellsworth (715) 273-4421.