Jeffrey K. Haynes
July 10, 1950 - February 16, 2026Longtime Oakland County Bar Association member Jeffrey K. Haynes passed away on February 16, 2026, at age 75 after battling kidney cancer. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Karen, his sons Mark (Diane) and Peter (Elizabeth), his brother Stephen (Patricia), and sister-in-law Gail.
Jeff was born in Traverse City, Michigan, and grew up in nearby Beulah on the shores of beautiful Crystal Lake, where he developed a love for the outdoors, including sailing and winter sports. Jeff, his brothers, and their families enjoyed returning to Beulah through the years. Jeff earned his undergraduate degree in philosophy (’72) and law degree (’75) from the University of Michigan. He was a proud member of the Theta Chi fraternity.
Jeff practiced environmental law as a senior partner at Beier Howlett, P.C. His cases spanned pollution remediation and prevention, resource management, and land and water conservation. He was a chief editor of the Michigan Environmental Law Deskbook, specialized in the Michigan Environmental Protection Act, and listed in Best Lawyers in America. A notable achievement was when he briefed and argued a property law case before the United States Supreme Court. He was a fellow in the American College of Environmental Lawyers, and last year he celebrated 50 years as a member of the Michigan State Bar, officially retiring in December 2025.
Jeff helped develop his sons’ love of the outdoors, Boy Scouts, national parks, and wild places. He was an avid reader and writer, Kiwanian, and proud U-M alum.
Since 1997, Jeff, Karen, and sons have been members of the Kirk in the Hills Presbyterian Church in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. Jeff sang in the choir for 16 years and served as an elder and on various committees. He loved classical and choral music and helped the church choose and raise money for the new pipe organ. In lieu of flowers, it would mean a lot to Jeff if you contribute to the organ fundraising effort: https://kirkinthe hills.org/music/renew-resound/. When the organ plays, we will be reminded of Jeff as a devoted husband, father, and friend.
A celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at Kirk in the Hills, on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 12:00pm. Reception to follow.
