Robert Lynn Hayden

Robert Lynn Hayden Sr., 76, of Longview passed away peacefully in his sleep, in his favorite chair, surrounded by family.

He was born May 20, 1947, in Tillamook, Ore., to Robert E. and Ethel M. (Zubke) Hayden and attended Tillamook schools. He served in the Army from 1966 to 1968, deployed to Berlin, Germany. While on leave at his mother’s home in Warrenton, Ore., he was introduced to the pretty 15 year-old next door, Linda McBride. They were married June 12, 1970. He loved Linda more than anything.

The Haydens moved to the local area in 1971. Rob worked for the Winlock Veneer Lumberyard until a work-related injury in 1972. He worked for both Gunnar’s Auto Supply stores until his back injury forced him to retire. Rob enjoyed being a stay at home dad, and proudly earned a general education diploma from Lower Columbia College in 1984, after studying at the kitchen table with his children, and being quizzed by Linda.

He was a bingo caller at the Eagles in his younger years and enjoyed yardwork when he was physically capable. More recently, Rob enjoyed doing I-Spy books with his grandchildren, playing Yahtzee and other games on his Kindle, listening to country music, playing Pinochle with his best friends Terry and Darlene Greer of Robertson, Ala., and yearly trips to Reno with Linda. He was a Mariners and Seahawks fan and loved playing with his dog Cocoa who passed in June. Rob was a quiet man who enjoyed his privacy.

Rob is survived by his best friend and beloved wife of 53 years, Linda Hayden at home; a daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Keith King of Chehalis, Wash.; a son, Rob Hayden Jr. of Longview; two grandsons, Nick King and Matthew King, both of Chehalis; two granddaughters, Katie King of Chehalis and Shelby Hayden of Longview; his honorary daughter, Angie Nugent of Longview; two brothers, Mike Hayden of Longview and Edward Hayden of Clatskanie, Ore.; a sister and brother-in-law, Penny and Bruce Reed of Castle Rock; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Ethel Hayden; three brothers, Art, Don and Miles Hayden; and a sister, Lydia Hayden.

A graveside service with military honors is planned for 1 p.m. Oct. 16 at Longview Memorial Park. The family requests casual attire (your favorite sports jersey if you have one).

Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army, P.O. Box 9219, Seattle, WA 98109.

Final arrangements have been entrusted to Steele Chapel at Longview Memorial Park & Crematory.