Okelena Hayes, 93, died Jan. 26, 2008.

Okelena Hayes, loved her family and was great at giving and receiving snugly hugs.

She enjoyed her flowers and even more giving flower plantings from her garden to family members to be planted in their gardens and in turn a family tradition carries forward. The celebration of music, creating &8220;just having fun times&8221; and always being concerned to leave things better than they were when she arrived was her way.

Okelena, a sweet lady, was born Nov. 23, 1914, in Austinville, Iowa, Butler County, to Henry and Geesien Baas. Okelena was one of 10 brothers and sisters. Her parents and seven siblings preceded her in death. The two still living are Gazena Hagen of Albert Lea and Bennie Baas of Marion, Ind.

Okelena Baas and Homer Hayes (deceased April 22, 1999) were married in September of 1935. They had three daughters, Delores (Gary) Van Gerpen, Patsy (Eugene) Block and Pauline (Scott) Schnor. She also had nine grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren who gave her much happiness.

The funeral service for Okelena Hayes will be Friday at 11 a.m. in the First Baptist Church of Albert Lea. The Rev. Clayton Balsley will officiate. Viewing will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the church before the service. Burial will follow the service at Graceland Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Scott Schnor, Scott Johnson, Brad Johnson, Travis McElroy, Josh DeVos and Chris Caya.

Honorary casket bearers are Sheila Collingwood and Kimberly Johnson.