Forrest Emerson "Bud" Hayes, 88, Rockford, died June 5, 2011, at Community Health Professionals Van Wert Inpatient Hospice Center.

He was born July 2, 1922, in Mercer County to Forest and Ellen Foor Hayes. On Sept. 8, 1946, he married Betty Karnehm, who survives.

Also surviving are three children, Craig (Heidi) Hayes, Phoenix, Ariz., and Deb (Steve) Knapke and Curtis "Pete" (Twyla) Hayes, all of Rockford; a sister, Margaret (Jerry) Baucher, Celina; a sister-in-law, Gretchen Hayes, Celina; and 11 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Gordon Hayes; and a sister, JoEllen Hayes.

He was a 1940 graduate of Rockford High School and an active member of Olive Branch Church of God, Ohio City, for more than 50 years. He was a Sunday school teacher. He was a lifelong farmer and was named Conservation Farmer of the Year in 1984. He served with the U.S. Army during World War II in the European Theater occupation of France. He was a member of Rockford American Legion Post 508 for more than 60 years and was a charter member of the Rockford Lions Club.

Service is 10:30 a.m. Friday at the church, the Rev. Steve Waterman officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olive Cemetery, Rockford.

Calling is 4-8 p.m. Thursday at Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home, Rockford, and one hour prior to service at the church Friday.

Memorials may be made to the church.

Condolences may be left at ketchamripley.com.