Dana Keith Hays

Dana Keith Hays, 65, of Bloomington, passed away early Monday morning on March 4, 2019 after losing a courageous, hard-fought battle with stage four urothelial cancer. He was born in Bloomington on December 20, 1953, the second child to James E. Hays and Dorothy M. (White) Hays, who preceded him in death. Dana was a graduate of Bloomington High School South. His “first” job was working at Hays Café, which was owned by his parents. He had to stand on milk crates to do dishes. He later worked at Westinghouse, Turned Products, plus several other factories and restaurants over the years. While working at MCL, he met and later married his wife of 22 years, Tina M. (Putman) Hays, who survives him. In total, they had more than 26 and a half years together – not nearly enough. Dana is the proud father of and survived by three children: son, Andrew Hays of Bloomington, Matthew Hays of Bedford, and daughter, Stephanie Hays of Bedford. He is survived by one grandson, Ryan Hays of Jeffersonville, who brought his Papaw more love, happiness and joy than can be imagined. He is survived by four brothers, Jerry Hays (wife, Jeanne), Tom Hays, Tim Hays (wife, Marcia), and Tony Hays, all of Bloomington. He is also survived by one sister, Denise Moore (husband, Duane) of Bloomington and numerous nieces and nephews. Dana is also survived by his two shelter kitties, Josie and Molly. Dana was passionate about putting out a garden in the front yard every summer. People who traveled Fairfax Road often referred to him as “The Tomato Guy” for his often unique plant structures. He loved building wooden structures for the yard. He really loved to get in political debates with people and voted in every election to make his voice heard. One of his favorite pastimes was spending time with his best-friend, Jason Epson. Dana chose to be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 8, 2019 at from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Allen Funeral Home and Crematory, 4155 S. Old State Road 37, Bloomington. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Bloomington Animal Shelter in Dana’s memory. The family would like to thank the staff at Stonecroft Health Center, IU Health Hospice House, IU Health Bloomington Hospital, and Dr. Laura Lourdes and the Cancer Infusion Team for their unyielding care and compassion. You are invited to share a memory or leave an online condolence to Dana’s family at www.allencares.com

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Dana Keith Hays

December 20, 1953 - March 4, 2019