William E. Hayenga Jr.

William E. Hayenga Jr., 68, of Lafayette passed away on Saturday, September 24, 2016 at his home.  He was born November 21, 1947, in Rockford, IL, to the late William and Ruth Neblock Hayenga.  Bill attended Hononegah High School in Rockton, IL and Purdue University.  He was a veteran of the Navy serving in the Vietnam War and was awarded a Purple Heart and the Navy Cross.  On October 20, 1990 he marreid Susan L. Meadows in Lafayette and she survives.  Bill served as the Postmaster in Fowler for 15 years and previously worked for the Postal Service in Lafayette in various positions.  He was a member of the VFW 1154, American Legion Post 11, 40 & 8, Navy Club 12, League of Postmasters, NAPS, Legion of Valor, NRA and The Military Order of the Purple Heart.  Bill enjoyed fishing, playing with his grandchildren, socializing, and living large!  Surviving are his children Jennifer J. Vandervate (Terry), William E. Hayenga III (Skye Abt), Joshua J. Hayenga and Cyndy S. Howard all of Lafayette.  His pride and joy grandchildren: Emily, Clayton, Maddy, Jonny, Cassidy, Ansley, Jace and William E. Hayenga IV.  Also surviving are his sisters, Cheryl L. Roden (Rick), Ruth A. Welcher (Tom) all of Lafayette and a brother Daniel S. Hayenga (Linda) of West Lafayette and sister-in-law Susan A. Hayenga.  Preceded in death by parents and siblings: Maryangela Tammy Hayenga, Kathy Rogers, Michael S. Hayenga and Gene W. Hayenga.  Visitation will be from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Wednesday at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd.  Service will be 10:00 am Thursday at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, Rev. Joseph Park officiating.  Interment will be at Tippecanoe Memory Gardens with American Legion Post #11 graveside rites. Memorial Contributions may be made to: Leukemia Lymphoma Society or Wounded Warriors Project.