Herman J. Haayer, of Coon Lake Beach, Wyo., was born Dec. 23, 1947, in Buffalo Center, Iowa, and died peacefully at his home on Sept. 23, 2006.

He was employed in the Optical Department of Wal-Mart, Forest Lake. Herman proudly served his country for six years in the United States Navy and 14 years with the Minnesota National Guard.

He was a longtime member of Hope Free Lutheran Church, Coon Lake Beach where he served as a trustee for many years.

He is preceded in death by his father Herman Haayer; brothers Harry and Gene Haayer; sister-in-law Janine Gayken; niece Jessica Gayken.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Pam; children Jennifer (Roger) Brandel, Adam (Summer) Haayer, Molly Haayer; grandchildren Mitchell, Madison, Megan, Marshall Brandel, Austin, Afton Haayer; mother Margaret Haayer; brothers, Carl (Carolyn) Haayer, Marion (Barb) Haayer, Ron, Bruce Haayer; father- and mother-in-law Kenneth (Lois) Gayken; many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Memorial services were at 11:30 a.m., today, Sept. 26, at Hope Free Lutheran Church, 18300 Lexington Ave., Coon Lake Beach. The family will greet friends from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. A luncheon will follow the service at the Coon Lake Community and Senior Center. Arrangements by Mattson Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 343 N. Shore Drive, Forest Lake, MN, 55025, (651) 464-3556.