It is with heavy hearts we announce that Garth Le Baron Hayes died peacefully at the age of 94, June 18, 2026. Garth passed away in Victoria, BC, surrounded in person and in spirit by his loving family and as always, by his wife Grace Hayes.
Garth was a rock-solid fellow, cemented through a degree in Geological Engineering from the Colorado School of Mines in 1954. He had a fulfilling career as a geologist before retiring to explore the world with his wife.
Garth and his beloved Grace were the ardent and alliterative team of G & G. For 69 years of marriage, G & G were partners in all adventures far and wide – hiking the Rockies with their young family, sailing the Bahamas, touring Africa and many years of enjoying the flora, fauna, and wines of Australia and New Zealand. Garth also reconnected with his Scandinavian heritage, where he was thrilled to discover he was related to a champion Swedish axe thrower.
Garth remained curious and passionate about geology throughout his life. Hikes were often interrupted to pick up a fossil or photograph an interesting formation. He had a keen eye for photographic composition; sharing the significance of what caught his eye and instilling a curiosity of the scientific and geologic world with his family.
Garth was a keen sportsman enjoying both tennis and golf, an aficionado of classical music, and proud member of the tortured cellist and pianist society. In his 50’s he began sailing lessons on Vancouver Island which led to many sailing adventures.
Amidst adventure and travel Garth made time for his family in the best of ways, building tree houses and playhouses, sandboxes and swing sets for his grandchildren, and they loved him for this.
Garth was renowned for his keen mind and attention to detail. He was a lover of scrabble and conqueror of crosswords until the day he died, when he won his final scrabble game with a score of 312.
Garth is survived by his wife Grace, three daughters Jane, Deirdre and Sandra and five grandchildren, Amelia, Caitlin, Cavan, Coco and Patrick, and by his sister Arlene Leone. Garth is pre-deceased by his brother Hartley Hayes.
Dear G(2) A(1) R(2) T(1) H(4), may you always land on the triple word score. We will miss you Garth, beloved husband, dad and grandfather.
As per Garth’s wishes no formal service will take place. A family gathering was held for Garth in their home on Fathers Day, June 21, 2026.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens
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