William Martin Hayward, 93

William Martin Hayward, 93, of Gothenburg, Nebraska, died September 4, 2022, at Hilltop Estates in Gothenburg.

Bill was born February 18, 1929, in Hyannis, NE, son ofWilliam L. and Edna (Martin) Hayward. Bill lived in Hyannis until he was in the seventh grade and then his family moved to Bridgeport. He graduated from Bridgeport High School in 1948. Bill worked on the railroad in Galesburg and Chicago. He served his country for three years in the U.S. Army, 1950-1953, stationed for two years in Anchorage, Alaska, and also stationed at Camp Carson, CO. After his discharge, he worked on the railroad in Chicago where he met and married Joyce Morss on July 1, 1960.

They moved to the Red Onion Ranch and had two children. Bill worked on the railroad and the family ranch until 1980 when he moved his family to Alliance, NE.

Bill worked as a welder for Gary’s Implement for six years. Bill and Joyce divorced in 1987. Bill married EloiseWalker of Cozad on May 17, 1997.

Bill lived in Hyannis, Alliance, Bridgeport and Cozad before making his home in Gothenburg. Bill enjoyed pitching horseshoes, pitching in 12 world tournaments and ranking in 9 of them.

He spent many hours playing pool and woodworking. Bill was an active member of the American Legion for over 60 years.

Surviving are daughter, April Joy Hayward of Galesburg, IL, and one grandchild,Tylee Miller of Cozad, along with many friends.

William was preceded in death by father,William L. Hayward, mother, Edna Kieselhorst, both wives, Eloise Hayward and Joyce Hayward, and his son David Martin Hayward.

Visitation will be held Thursday, September 8, 2022, from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. CST at Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel in Gothenburg. Services will follow at the Chapel on Sept.

8 at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Dan Urman officiating.

Burial will be held 12:00 p.m. MST, Friday, September 9, 2022, in the State Veterans Cemetery in Alliance, NE.

Memorials may be given to the Gothenburg Volunteer Fire Department, 602 Tenth Street, Gothenburg, NE, 69138, or to First Baptist Church, 1002 Avenue C, Gothenburg, NE.

To sign the online guest book, go to www.blasestrauser.com.