Greenfield- Hugh Spelman Hayden, 94, of Brookside Ave died peacefully after a brief illness on December 25, 2017, just the way he wanted it, at home, surrounded by his loving family.  Hugh was born in North Adams, MA on March 18, 1923, the son of Harry E. and Mabel E. (Farnham) Hayden.  He was a graduate of Drury High School Class of 1940.  He graduated from the University of New Hampshire in 1949, obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics.  He continued his education, receiving his Master’s degree from the University of Massachusetts in elementary education. 

Hugh was a World War II Veteran with service in the United States Army from 1943-1946.  He was a part of the European Theater of Operations with the 405th Armored Field Artillery attached to the 8th Armored Division and also took part in the Rhineland and Ardennis Campaign.  Hugh was honorably discharged in 1946, obtaining the rank of sergeant.

Hugh retired in 1984, after a thirty-two year career as a respected teacher and administrator in the school systems of Northfield, Bernardston, Greenfield, MA, and East Windsor, CT.  Following retirement, Hugh was a driving instructor for the former Farrell’s Driving School and a part time driver-courier for Toyota of Greenfield, Sweeney Ford and Lincoln Mercury in Greenfield.  He was employed part-time by Northeast Utilities as a guide at the fish ladders in Turners Falls and Holyoke.

Hugh was a longtime volunteer for the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce (Tourist Information Center) in Greenfield.  Hugh was an avid outdoorsman (skiing, snowshoeing, hiking) and was a member of the Green Mountain Club.  He planned outings with his family to share this love of nature.

Besides his beloved wife of 65 years, L. Evelyn (Hunkler) Hayden, Hugh leaves two daughters, Deborah L. Wilson and her husband Karl of Beverly, MA and Leslie J. Webb and her husband Dwight of Lee, NH; a sister, Priscilla B. Hayden of North Adams, MA; four grandchildren, Ginger Morawski of Brattleboro, VT, Michael and Stephen Wilson of Beverly, MA and Julia Webb of Lee, NH and several nieces and nephews.

Hugh was predeceased by his daughter, Alyson M. Hayden and granddaughter, Bianca Wilson and two brothers, Byard and Mahlon Hayden.

Calling hours will be held Friday 12/29/17 from 2-5pm at the Kostanski Funeral Home, 220 Federal Street, Greenfield, MA 01301.

Burial will be held by family in the spring at Bellevue Cemetery in Adams, MA.

In memory of Hugh, please pass forward an act of kindness to someone.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Franklin County, 329 Conway Street, Greenfield, MA 01301 or to the Green Mountain Club, 4711 Waterbury Stowe Rd., Waterbury, Center, VT 05677.

Sympathy message available at www.kostanskifuneralhome.com.

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