Hayden "Denny" Sears,  Jr., age 81, died from complications of a stroke on Monday, October 5, 2020. Denny was born in Hibbing, Minnesota to the late Hayden and Helene (Norby) Sears on May 16, 1939. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his wife, Gerber Sears, a brother, John W. Sears and a sister, Pamela Sears.
Denny graduated from Aurora High School M.N. in 1957 where he loved to participate in wrestling and football. He worked in iron mines to put himself through college where he received a Bachelor's Degree from The University of Nebraska and a Master's Degree from Webster University. In 1961, Denny joined the US Air Force and honorably served his country for 25 years, he was proud to be a Combat Controller. He was also a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he earned a Silver Star and an Airman's Medal among many others, retiring in 1986 with the rank of Lt. Colonel. In 1971, Denny married Gerburg (Schupmann) and over the next 15 years they were stationed in FL, CA, NC, England and Germany. After retiring from the US Air Force, they moved to Pensacola, F.L., to open the area's first Fantastic Sam's hair salon. Completely retiring a few years later, he enjoyed a quiet life dedicated to his family, especially his most loved granddaughter.
Denny was a loving husband, father and grandfather, he loved his country and family very much. He was a brave and courageous warrior but very modest and humble about his time in the military. He was always an avid outdoors man, even as a child, he delighted in wandering through the woods of Minnesota and Michigan. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, loved playing golf and at one point was a scratch golfer. He will be remembered as charming, kind and funny. He will always be held in high regard by those who knew him and terribly missed by those who love him.
Those left to cherish his memory include, his daughter, Correne Sears and his granddaughter, Maria "Mia" Weaver.

A graveside service to honor the life of Hayden Sears, Jr., will be held at 1:30 P.M. on Monday, October 19, 2020, at Barrancas National Cemetery, with Reverend Kenneth Griffin, officiating. Military honors will be accorded by the United States Air force.  Those wishing to attend the service are asked to meet at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel, 2276 Airport Blvd, Pensacola, at 12:30 P.M. on Monday, to go in procession to the cemetery.