Dr. Karen A. Hayes
February 19, 1964 – October 21, 2023
Dr. Karen A. Hayes, a member of the Iola and Waupaca community and a respected veterinarian, peacefully passed away at the age of 59 on Saturday Oct. 21, 2023.
Born on Feb. 19, 1964, in the city of Chicago, Illinois, Karen brought joy and compassion into the lives of those around her. Karen graduated from John F. Kennedy High School in 1982. She studied Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana.
Upon graduation, she worked in Arcola as a veterinarian for about four years. She then built Countryside Animal Hospital with her husband in Waupaca, Wisconsin, where they just celebrated 30 years of business. In her free time, she enjoyed reading, going to Amish auctions, watching the show “Emergency”, fishing and spending time with family.
Karen dedicated her life to the well-being and care of animals. With her incredible knowledge and unwavering passion, she helped and saved thousands of animals throughout her career. She had a tremendous and selfless love for animals. She saw to it that she would care for any pet in need, often at the cost of staying late or skipping lunch.
Karen’s loving spirit extended beyond her career, as she nurtured and cherished her relationships. She was a devoted mother to her three children and would do anything in her power to make sure they were happy. She was a loving daughter to her late father Raymond Wavruk, and her mother, Alberta Wavruk, who survives her. Additionally, she was the loving wife of Philip Hayes, who stood by her side for 36 years, supporting her in all her endeavors. She is also survived by her loving children: PJ (Nicole) Hayes, Stephanie Hayes, Timothy Hayes, and brother Ken (Karen) Wavruk.
In honor of Karen’s life, funeral services and ceremonies will be held to gather in remembrance and celebration of her remarkable journey. A visitation will take place at the Voie Funeral Home in Iola on Thursday, Oct. 26, from 4-7 p.m., providing an opportunity for friends, family, and acquaintances to pay their respects and share cherished memories. The following day, the funeral service will be held at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church at 11 a.m. Father Xavier Santiago will officiate. Prior to the service, a visitation will be held at the church from 9-10:45 a.m. allowing loved ones to find solace and support in one another during this difficult time. Following the final ceremonies, Karen will be laid to rest in the parish cemetery in Waupaca close to her father. Her spirit will continue to inspire those she touched throughout her life, and she will be truly missed.
Dr. Karen A. Hayes will forever be remembered for her ability to bring about joy and love, and endless dedication to her career and family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. In this time of sorrow, we take solace in the legacy she leaves behind and the lasting impact she had on our lives. May she find eternal peace and happiness in the loving embrace of those who have gone before her.
A memorial fund in memory of Karen has been established for future veterinary students.