William James Hayducsko

We are sad to share the passing of William James Hayducsko, on October 29, 2024. He succumbed to cancer at the age of 56 in Kansas City. Born on August 21, 1968, in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, Will was the beloved son of the late George Peter Hayducsko Sr. and Florence Pursel Hayducsko. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Valerie Yawger and Linda Ash.

After graduating from Warren Hills Regional High School in 1987, Will attended Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin and earned a Bachelor of History with a minor in conflict & peacemaking. 

Known for his energy, humor, and adventurous spirit, Will dedicated his life to exploring the world and making it a better place. His two years in the Peace Corps took him to Chad, where he taught P.E. and promoted public health. His adventures later led him to McMurdo Bay, Antarctica, where he worked in construction during one summer and one winter season. As a carpenter and remodeler, he left his mark across New Jersey, Kansas, Hawaii and many other states, building not just structures but also lasting relationships.

Will was an avid hiker, backpacker, climber, and a former triathlete, with a passion for world travel. His accomplishments included thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2023, hiking the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim in 2022, and summiting some of the world's most iconic peaks, including Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mt. Fuji, Mt. Rainier (three times), Mt. Whitney, and Mt. Elbert. 

Will is survived by his partner, Nicole Hastings, and his brother, George Hayducsko Jr. (Judy). He was “Uncle Will” to Robert Yawger, Ron Yawger (Tracey), David Yawger (Renee), Lisa Ash Geddes (Tom), Joah Ash (Nikol), George Hayducsko III (Anna), and Scott Hayducsko (Lynne). He will also be missed by his great nieces and nephews: Morgan, Travis, Danielle, Reed, David Atticus, Jackson, Tayech, Hayden, Rylee, Michael, Hannah, Joseph, Belle, and Eli. 

A friend of nature, Will's spirit still inspires those who knew him to get outdoors and explore the world. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, via their website: appalachiantrail.org/ 

Interment and celebration of life will take place in the summer of 2025 in Oxford, New Jersey.