Charles C. Hayes, vet, 82, Charlestown, instrumental in youth hockey program

Charles C. Hayes of Charlestown, a veteran, died Thursday in his home after a brief battle with cancer. He was 82.

Born in Boston, Mr. Hayes was raised in Charlestown, where he was a lifelong resident.

He was a graduate of Boston Technical High School.

He enlisted in the Army in 1954 and served during the Korean Conflict. He was discharged a year later with the rank of private first class.

Following his military service, Mr. Hayes enrolled at Northeastern University and received a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering in 1964.

He began working for the federal government in 1965 and retired from the Defense Contract Service Administration as a quality manager in 1995, following more than 30 years of dedicated service to his country.

He was a member of the Bunker Hill Council No. 62 Knights of Columbus and The Old Charlestown Schoolboys Association.

Mr. Hayes was very instrumental and involved with the Milt Schmidt Hockey Program in Charlestown during the late 1960s and 1970s, where many young boys started their hockey careers.

He enjoyed reading and gardening at his summer home in Raymond, N.H.

Mr. Hayes is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary L. “Marylou” (Mullen); a son, Charles J. of Stratham, N.H.; a daughter, Julie M. of Burlington; two grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and friends.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. today at St. Mary’s Church, Charlestown.

Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden.

Arrangements by Carr Funeral Home, Charlestown.