Chad Erik Hayward

Chad Erik Hayward, 50, of Sawyer went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, January 27, 2024 in the care of his family.

A funeral service will be held 11 AM, Saturday, February 3, 2024 at  Sawyer Highlands Church, 13100 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer. MI 49125, with Reverend Mike Mercer and Pastor Joe Koehler officiating. Friends may meet with the family from 5-7 PM, Friday, February 2, 2024 at Pike Funeral and Cremation Services, Boyd Chapel 9191 Red Arrow Hwy, Bridgman. Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery, Lakeside. Memorial contributions may be given to the Scholarship Fund of Accord Network, 2551 New Morning Avenue, Henderson, NV 89052  Online Donations in Honor of Chad. Online condolences accepted at www.PikeFH.com.

Chad was born December 29, 1973 in Yankton, South Dakota, the son of the late Jerald and Sharon (Seefeld) Hayward. After his childhood on a South Dakota farm, Chad went on to study Political Science and History at Oklahoma Wesleyan University. He worked in nonprofit marketing in Oklahoma and Colorado then spent over a decade in Washington D.C. He was the press secretary for US House Representative Jim Ryun (KS), campaigned for US Senator John Thune (SD), and then served in the Bush Administration in the office of USAID. Chad finished his career as the CEO of Accord Network, connecting Christian relief and development nonprofits for 17 years, until his medical retirement in November, 2023 due to lung cancer.

Survivors include his brothers: Daniel (Suzanne) Hayward, John (Lindy) Hayward; eight nieces and nephews: Drew (Sarah Grace), Ethan (Julia), Will (Kennedy), Wesley, J.C., Rosie, David and Marcus Hayward and a great nephew: Leon.

Arrangements are entrusted to Pike Funeral and Cremation Services, 9191 Red Arrow Hwy, Bridgman.