1961 - 2025
He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Mercedes Margarita (Chong) Hayes, whom he married in 1990. Together, they built a beautiful life in Milford, where they have lived since 1995. In addition to his wife, Chester is survived by his mother Carolyn Hayes of Waltham; his brother Charles Randy Hayes and wife Ana Hayes of San Antonio, TX; his sister Sandi (Hayes) Meadows and husband Steve of Beavercreek, OH; and his in-laws Marcia and Jose Viteri of Newport, RI; Alfredo Javier and Gloria Chong of Milford; and Teresa (Chong) and Victor Jofat of Guayaquil, Ecuador. He also leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Calvin R. Hayes, of Fiske, Missouri.
Born on an Air Force base in Tachikawa, Japan, Chester spent his childhood in Jennings, Missouri, and Waltham, Massachusetts, graduating from Waltham High School in 1979. After high school, he proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving aboard the USS Saipan out of Norfolk, Virginia. Upon completing his service, he returned to Waltham in 1985, where he met and married Margarita five years later.
Chester dedicated his professional life to electronics repair and technology, working for Raytheon in Waltham, 3Com in Framingham, Hologic in Waltham, and most recently Doble Engineering in Marlborough. His coworkers became lifelong friends, reflecting the respect and affection he inspired wherever he went.
Chester’s life centered around family, faith, and service. He was known for his generosity, his humor, and his unwavering devotion to those he loved. Whether spending time at home, working with his hands, or participating in church and community life, Chester brought warmth and sincerity to everything he did.
He will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted son and brother, and a loyal friend whose compassion and kindness touched many lives.
Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Consigli-Ruggerio Funeral Home, 46 Water Street, Milford. The funeral will begin at 10 a.m. on Thursday with a Mass at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, 17 Winter Street, Milford. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery on Cedar Street in Milford.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Living With The Ribbon Foundation, 175 Blackstone Street, Mendon, MA 01756, or via Venmo @LivingWithTheRibbon-Foundation.
