Fr. Zachary Hayes, O.F.M., a native of Chicago and a life-long professor of theology, passed away on Sunday, March 16th, in the company of his Franciscan brothers at Blessed Giles Friary in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. He was 81 years old.

Father Zachary entered the Sacred Heart Province of the Order of Friars Minors July 4, 1952, and was ordained to the priesthood on June 24, 1959. Following his ordination, he received his professional education in theology at the University of Bonn in Germany. Upon his return he joined the faculty of St. Joseph Seminary in Teutopolis, Illinois, where clerics studying for the Franciscan priesthood received their seminary training. Father Zachary was a founding faculty member of the Catholic Theological Union when it was organized in 1968 and remained a distinguished faculty member there until his retirement in 2005.

The Liturgy of Christian Burial for Father Zachary will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 26th, at 11:00 a.m. at Catholic Theological Union  5416 S. Cornell Chicago, IL.

He is survived by two sisters: Elizabeth Jane Kulczyk and Mary Catherine Hayes. He is also survived by two cousins: Dr. Jacquline Krump and Mrs. Gerald Cascino along with several nieces and nephews. Preceded in death : Parents: Robert and Elizabeth (Lehman) Hayes,  Sisters: Sr. Audrey Hayes, OSF and Marjorie Glass,  Brothers: Robert Joseph Hayes and George Hayes.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation for the care of the elderly Franciscan priests and brothers.  Blessed Giles Friary 1820 Grand Ave  Manitowoc, WI  54220  Your contribution will be most appreciated.

May Fr. Zachary rest in peace.