Long time resident and local auto mechanic, Hayden Lee Muskrat, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, June 7th surrounded by his loving family. He was born on April 11, 1928 to Steve and Delilah Muskrat. A native of Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, Hayden settled in the Central Valley with his parents in 1942 along with two sisters; Mildred Bass & Nadine Morton, and two brothers; Bill & Hubert Muskrat.
After proudly serving in the Marine Corps, during the Korean War, Hayden returned to the states where he completed his training to become a Drill Sergeant. Upon being honorably discharged from the Corps, he returned home to assist the family; soon thereafter, he married Elaine Red on January 22, 1956. Hayden worked the remainder of his adult life as an auto mechanic where he developed a reputation as one of the premier Chevy mechanics in the Central Valley. He was the ‘go to’ guy for all your automotive needs; not to mention, his expertise of all things hunting and fishing. From pitching a tent to baiting a hook, Hayden created a legacy of wilderness enthusiasts amongst his adored family members. Hayden was an avid hunter and fisherman, spending most of his down time deer hunting and fishing around the Wishon Reservoir.
Hayden is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine Muskrat, of 64 years; his brother, Hubert Muskrat (Evelyn); three sons, Stephen Muskrat (Iona), Dennis Muskrat, and Mark Muskrat (Marylou); 6 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents; Steve and Delilah Muskrat, sisters; Mildred Bass and Nadine Morton, and his brother; Bill Muskrat.
Services will be held Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at 9:00 AM in the Phipps Dale Funeral Chapel (420 W. D Street, Lemoore, CA). Due to Covid 19, all participants will be required to wear a mask.