Hi Todd and Kindra, I am so very sorry about the loss of your Dad. I am Susan, Daughter of Irene McCoy Haydis and Step-Daughter of Alan Haydis. They both worked at LeyVa with your Dad since day 1 of the LeyVa days. I went to Quimby Oak and I, unfortunately never had your Dad as my P.E. teacher or coach. My Mom was the school nurse and Alan was the Band/Music teacher. On my many visits to LeyVa to see my Mom...I had the pleasure of knowing your Dad...he was an awesome person and loved by so many students, parents, and fellow coworkers. I was going through some old boxes of pictures about 2 months ago and happened to come across this picture of your Dad and my Mom at LeyVa, taken sometime around 1976-1978ish. On July 19th there was a picnic Tribute to Mr. Alan Haydis, put on by some of his former LeyVa band students. Your Dad was really wanting to go but he was out of the country...he sent my Mom a message on the 18th expressing his regrets that he could not make it and sent my Mom and Alan his love. They just adored him and they have so many neat stories about the days they all worked together at LeyVa. When they got the news, the day after the picnic, they were in shock and felt devastated, as I am sure everyone was. I was home with them that night. This picture was one I had put on a LeyVa collage board that I had made for Alan's Tribute picnic. My Mom loved this picture. It's not the best quality but it is a great picture of two happy friends. My Mom asked me if I would send this to you. She really wanted you guys to have it. *(I posted the picture in the photo gallery on this page)
Again, I send you both and your family my deepest condolences. I lost my own Dad in 1994...things do get easier with time but deep down inside it does still hurt. I cherish my memories and love seeing pictures of my Dad. I hope in time you find comfort in your memories of your Dad. In 1976 I graduated from Quimby Oak, LeyVa's rival Jr. High school and many of my friends went to LeyVa and had your Dad as a teacher and or coach and over the years they all talked highly of him and with much respect...I am sure the Memorial service will be packed with so many people who's own lives were impacted by your Dad in such a good way. Hugs and prayers to you both and your Mom.
Sincerely,
Susan McCoy Fong