Milan Hayden

STOW - Milan "Chief" Hayden, 87, of Stow, passed away November 29, 2010. He was born in Johnstown, PA, on July 28, 1923, the son of the late Stanko and Milka Hayden. He joined the Navy in 1943 and served on the USS Tryon and NTS Sampson N.Y. He was Honorably Discharged in 1947 and was awarded The Pacific Theater Ribbon (7Stars), American Theater Ribbon, Victory Medal , Philippines Liberation Ribbon (2 Stars), two Bronze Stars, and one Silver Star.

Milan graduated from Kent State University with a Master's degree in History and a Master's degree in Industrial Arts. He taught at Ellet High School for 33 years before retiring in 1983 and was a favorite among many of his students, some of whom he remained friends with all his life. Milan earned the nickname "Chief" from his students because he would frequently remind them that he was the only chief in the classroom.

He loved animals and farming and spent much of his time tending crops, horses, cattle, chickens, ducks and Wilbur the pig, with much help from his family.

Milan was preceded in death by his parents, brothers George and Mike "Baer", and sister Dorthy "Boots". He is survived by his wife of 53 years Louise; his daughter Paula (Geoff); and his grandson Nathan; sisters Helen "Jek" Poloyac, Stella Burkhart, and Mary Spreng; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to the Redmon Funeral Home, 3633 Darrow Road, Stow, for visitation on Friday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM. A memorial for close friends and family will be held at a later date. Mr. Hayden's video tribute may be seen here.