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Home > Blogs > Taste: Dayton food and restaurants > Archives > 2009 > May > 20 > Entry
Jay’s restaurant owner Jay Haverstick found dead in Death Valley
NOTE: This story was updated at 6:50 p.m. Wednesday, May 20.
Jay’s Restaurant founder Jay Haverstick was found dead Wednesday, May 20, in Death Valley National Park, 1 1/2 miles from his car and 1/2 mile from a ranger station, according to park spokesman Terry Baldino.
Mr. Haverstick was visiting the park with a college friend, but he went out alone at about 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 19, apparently to shoot photographs of the large sand dunes near the park’s center in the morning light.
It is not clear when or how Mr. Haverstick died, Baldino said. The Inyo County Coroner will perform an autopsy.
The park spokesman said it appeared Mr. Haverstick was headed toward the ranger station, since the station was visible from where his body was found, but his car was not. Temperatures on Tuesday reached 112 degrees, and it was a windy day with blowing sand, Baldino said.
Park employees and other rescue personnel, aided by a California Highway Patrol helicopter, searched for Mr. Haverstick Tuesday afternoon and resumed the search Wednesday morning, Baldino said. His body was found at about 12:45 p.m. Ohio time.
Mr. Haverstick, 69, was an avid photographer and specialized in outdoor photography. In recent years, he published a calendar spotlighting his shots and made the calendars available to guests at his namesake restaurant at 225 E. Sixth St. in Dayton’s Oregon Historic District. In fact, the cover of the 2009 calendar is a photo of the sand dunes in Death Valley, taken in early morning light.
Mr. Haverstick’s wife, Idy, and his daughter, Amy, flew to Death Valley National Park Wednesday morning.
David Vasconez of Oakwood said on Wednesday that he sat in front of Mr. Haverstick on a Dayton-to-Chicago flight last week and listened to him talk about his excitement of his upcoming trip with an old college buddy. He said he introduced himself to Mr. Haverstick and talked about the best way to cook swordfish.
“I was floored. I just got chills,” said Vasconez, after he read the stories online Wednesday about Mr. Haverstick first reported missing and later being found deceased.
Jay’s restaurant was closed Wednesday night but is expected to reopen at 5 p.m. Thursday.
Permalink | Comments (98) | Post your comment | Categories: Local restaurant news
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By beverly
May 28, 2009 2:48 PM | Link to this
Jay was/is the epitome of “class act.” My deepest condolences to the Haverstick family.
By Phil Kember
May 23, 2009 12:10 PM | Link to this
Jay took my photo workshop in Death Valley in 2004. I remember him as a fun, determined man who was loved and respected by his friends. To his family, I’m sorry for your loss and I only wish I could have been there to help him. Respectfully, Phil Kember.
By Steve Olekas
May 22, 2009 10:47 PM | Link to this
I have some of the fondest memories working for (and with) Jay in his restaurants. He was a great mentor and friend. My condolences to Idy, Amy and Joe and the Haverstick family. All of us who knew him will miss “the Fella”. He gave every body the best of times.
By William Sarris
May 22, 2009 11:46 AM | Link to this
I knew/met Jay when I worked at The Oregon Express in the late 1980’s and he was a “special” individual to say the least. What is so surreal to me is that I was just at that same Death Valley location on April 1st, 2009 when I was on spring break…..it just was strange when I heard the news….like it was The Twilight Zone it’s VERY HARD TO BELIEVE.
By Gary Armstrong
May 22, 2009 9:30 AM | Link to this
The first home my parents owned was built by the Haverstick family construction company in 1951 next to a cow pasture and the original Dayton General Airport where Charles Kettering and Arthur Godfrey used to land their private planes. Larry Boord, who owned the insurance agency next door, and I used to eat lunch at Jay’s often. I live in Ft Lauderdale now, but always stopped at Jay’s when I was in town. He will be missed.
By Laura
May 22, 2009 8:22 AM | Link to this
My condolences to the family. We’ve eaten at Jay’s many times for our holiday dinners and other outings. In fact Jay brought his calendar over the last time we were there and chatted with us for a while. He seemed like a very nice and genuine man. I have no doubt he’ll be missed! Vickie - you give religion a bad name. Please don’t post to message boards. No one wants to hear from you.
By Lynn and Tom
May 21, 2009 9:30 PM | Link to this
Great smile, wonderful laugh, beautiful man…we feel fortunate to be a part of your gigantic circle of friends. Love ya “fella”.
By Becky Custer
May 21, 2009 6:15 PM | Link to this
Never easy to find the right words except to say, “Thanks for the many great memories!” I want to extend my condolences to the Haverstick family and Jay’s extended family.
By Vickiewillgetbadkarma
May 21, 2009 1:03 PM | Link to this
Jay’s seafood was a very good place to eat and enjoy the company of friends and family. I think this area was for comments to remember Jay and give his family our condolences. NOT a place for people like Vickie to come and spread their negativity all over the place!
By Vickiewillgetbadkarma
May 21, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this
Jay’s seafood was a very good place to eat and enjoy the company of friends and family. I think this area was for comments to remember Jay and give his family our condolences. NOT a place for people like Vickie to come and spread their negativity all over the place!
By Vickie
May 21, 2009 12:44 PM | Link to this
Colleen, you say you know where Jay is at, if he did not know Jesus I know where he is at an he is not sipping on wine.
By Jeff Miller
May 21, 2009 11:37 AM | Link to this
working at the Yankee Tavern as bartender/ bar-mgr. was my favorite job of all time…… Jay: I hope you and “Bud” are having one for me.
By Denny Browne
May 21, 2009 11:26 AM | Link to this
I had the privilege of working briefly for Jay at the Yankee Tavern and for the first year that Jay’s was open in the Oregon District. After leaving Dayton 25 years ago, we find an irresistable urge to stop by Jay’s nearly every time we’re back visiting family. It’s always been a pleasure to spend a few minutes with him and flattering to be greeted warmly by him and Idy without exception. Our hearts go out to Idy, Amy, Joe and all the family and friends who were close to him over the years.
By Bruce Ziegler
May 21, 2009 9:55 AM | Link to this
As a former Managing Partner with Jay in The Yankee Tavern - the predecessor to Jay’s - I can speak for all of those who worked so well together for so many years to help Jay become established as his own restauranteur in the greater Dayton area: Chef Lee Babcock and Bakery Chef-wife JoAnne; “Idy” the peanut butter pie maker and the greatest salad lady ever !; the “Piano Man” - Jack Bridges and singer-wife Sandy - the first in Ohio to play a grand piano in a dairy barn!; for the “Dancing Bear Bartenders” - Ted Hoy, Jeff Miller, Phil “Cannon” Longo with the three Linda(s)as the “Dancing Bear-ettes” - the first troupe to dance on the bar - long before they did it at the “Diner”; Betty - in the first wine and cheese store as part of a restaurant in our area; partners represented with the professionalism and wisdom of the late John Voss, Sr.; tens of thousands of customers represented by the personality and the “Voice”, the late Art Brown (WDTN-TV2 Anchor); and the wonderful “YT” staff who turned Dayton ON to one of the best restaurants ever … and of course to Jay - the first in the greater Dayton area to fly-in fresh fish from Foley’s in Boston, the first to bring fresh cut prime meats from the Bruss Company in Chicago, the first to fly-in fresh cheeses from Europe, all put forth on red and white checkered table cloths under real oil burning lanterns in a hay barn … Jay was truly one-of-a-kind and before his time … I can sincerely say … “Jay - you too are a ‘first’ - GREAT job, and very well done !”
By John Holton
May 21, 2009 9:54 AM | Link to this
Spending 35 years in the restaurant/tavern business, Jay & I became good friends. We shared many laughs and good times. I am saddened to hear the news. My best to his family.
By Craig A.
May 21, 2009 9:38 AM | Link to this
Jay, I know you were pursuing your passion, but it’s difficult to absorb the fact that you’re not coming back. Jay’s is the only place I consider when entertaining folks from out of town. Every one of them remembers the place, especially if they got to meet and talk with you. I learned a lot from our conversations and regardless of the topic, you always took the high road which is how you earned the respect of everyone who has ever met you. I will miss you each time I enter the business you created and nurtured. I know that your family and employes will honor your memory by running your place the way you would have and maybe it will seem like you’re still in the room.
By Sue Woods
May 21, 2009 9:10 AM | Link to this
Jay was always so supportive of the AFS Intercultural Student Exchange Program, specifically, the annual cooking school, as well as many other philanthopies. Truly, we will all miss him greatly. My condolences to his family.
By Beth
May 21, 2009 8:41 AM | Link to this
I am saddened by the news of Jay’s death. I will always remember him as a sweet, charming man. I lost my father 2 months ago and o
By Former employee
May 21, 2009 8:34 AM | Link to this
Our deepest sympathy goes out to Idy, Joe, and Amy. May you find strength through prayer and your wonderful memories.
By Claudia
May 21, 2009 6:54 AM | Link to this
So very sad. Jay was a warm and caring person. He will be missed.
By Jennifer Stewart
May 21, 2009 12:53 AM | Link to this
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Jay. As a former employee I can personally attest to the character of this great man. He was the type of boss everyone wants to works for. He respected, appreciated, and truly cared for his employees. He made you want to do a great job, not only for him and the restaurant, but for yourself as well. Dayton lost one of their best today. He will be greatly missed and always remembered.
By Steve
May 21, 2009 12:25 AM | Link to this
My wife and I love Jay’s restaurant. Less than a year ago, during a busy night, the restaurant was short-handed so Jay helped the hostess seat people at his restaurant. Jay was a class act. My prayers are with him family.
By Sallie O
May 21, 2009 12:04 AM | Link to this
What a great loss to the family, friends, and city of Dayton. Deepest sympathy to all who knew him … God Bless you in this difficult time.
By Tony Turpin
May 20, 2009 11:32 PM | Link to this
Jay was a very nice man. I had the pleasure of working at Jay’s back in the late 80’s.He will be missed by all.Thanks for my start in the restaurant.My prayers go out to your fMILY business.My
By Todd
May 20, 2009 11:17 PM | Link to this
To Jay, who loved his life and his job, (some would say they were one in the same). Without him I would have far fewer friends, and a much poorer life.
By B
May 20, 2009 11:17 PM | Link to this
If you are from Dayton, you lost a part of yourself today. Jay, I hope you had the perfect photo in the viewfinder yesterday. You showed us all how life should be lived.
By Colleen
May 20, 2009 10:54 PM | Link to this
I know where Jay is now and he has many friends to greet him, including my Dad. God bless you, Jay. Thank you for many happy years.
By Rich K.
May 20, 2009 9:56 PM | Link to this
As are so many others in the Dayton area, my family is saddened by the loss of Jay. His resturant has been the focal point for YEARS of memorable times goo and bad withinkour family.. When my fther passed, Jay and his famil were g
By Alan
May 20, 2009 9:08 PM | Link to this
My mom worked with the Haverstick family in their construction business in the 70’s when they were building the Clyo Road neighborhood, and was a partner in the Yankee Tavern restaurant. She still has fond memories of those years. Jay was a class act, and was truly the definition of a gentleman. My condolences to the family. May you rest in peace.
By Rob
May 20, 2009 8:32 PM | Link to this
Jay, save me a seat near the red wine…
By Melissa
May 20, 2009 8:18 PM | Link to this
As a fellow restrateur (Parkmoor restaurants) my father was well-acquainted with Jay, and thought highly of him. I haven’t seen Jay in many years, but also remember him as a kind man who worked hard and believed in first-class quality. I’m so sorry to read of his passing, and - on behalf of my family - extend our deepest sympathies to Jay’s family.
By Gary Pack
May 20, 2009 7:56 PM | Link to this
Jay, you were a gentleman’s gentleman. I am sure you are enjoying your new life to it’s fullest. It was my pleasure to know you. Salute!
By Don Phillips
May 20, 2009 7:54 PM | Link to this
So sorry to read about the death of Jay.I have known Jay for over 35 years and he will be truely missed in the Dayton community.
By Wendy
May 20, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this
To the Haverstick family and to Jay’s extended family at the restaurant, my deepest sympathies. What a privelege it was to know this fine man. His quiet grace and warm spirit will live on in the countless people who admired him. God bless you, and Godspeed to Jay.
By Commodore Family
May 20, 2009 7:32 PM | Link to this
The Commodore Family send out our most heartfelt condolences. We like to take this time to let the Haverstick family know, you all are in our prayers and we also share in the lost of your loved one.
By sheila
May 20, 2009 7:11 PM | Link to this
It was very sad to hear of this great tragedy. Jay went to cardiac rehab at Kettering Medical Center with my husband and myself. We enjoyed talking with him. He was a gentle, kind, and caring man with great gift of intellect. He will be missed. May God wrap the family with His Love and may you hold all those memories close to you.
By John Huffman
May 20, 2009 6:34 PM | Link to this
As a friend and fellow Oregon District Business owner for over 20 years we shared many conversations and common interests. He was unique in this world and will be deeply missed. Above all, Jay knew how to live and enjoyed life. May he rest in peace.
By Phil Parker
May 20, 2009 6:25 PM | Link to this
Jay was a great businessman, family man and advocate for the Oregon District. My respect for him and his father Joe will always continue.
By JD McKnight
May 20, 2009 6:13 PM | Link to this
Our sympathy goes out to the Haverstick family and all Jay’s employees. There was only one Jay Haverstick and he will be missed. We have had many memorable times at Jay’s and unique conversations with Jay.
By Dow Thomas
May 20, 2009 5:54 PM | Link to this
I am deeply saddened By the news of Jay Haverstick’s passing. I worked for him as an entertainer at “The Yankee Tavern” and at “Jay’s”.
By rabbit
May 20, 2009 5:43 PM | Link to this
I knew Jay through all the Christmas Parties that he would host for my wife’s workplace. He was a wonderful man and my condolences to his fammily
By Steve
May 20, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this
My deepest sympathies go out to Amy, Idy and the rest of the family at Jays. He was one of the nicest people in the business, one for whom I had the utmost respect and admiration. He will be missed.
By Bruce Lindsey
May 20, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this
There are no words to describe my sorrow for the passing of Jay. I learned so much from him over the last 30 odd years. His life was one of passion for his family, food and wine, his hobby and his city of Dayton. We have suffered a great loss at his passing, but should celebrate his life.
By elizabieth
May 20, 2009 5:35 PM | Link to this
he was a great man!
By Steve
May 20, 2009 5:35 PM | Link to this
Very saddened to hear about this. He was the BEST! Way too soon for such a nice gentleman. Loved his photography and of course, his restaurant. He lived a full life! Cheers to Jay. I will miss him.
By sassy
May 20, 2009 5:30 PM | Link to this
Enjoyed visiting this restaurant. The atmosphere was nice. May the Lord bless this family during their time of grief.
By Tom
May 20, 2009 5:23 PM | Link to this
I’m very sorry to hear this. Jay has been nothing but great for the City of Dayton. Anyone who’s been to Jay’s Restaurant in the Oregon District has certainly met him because Jay made it a point to meet all of his customers!
By Rachelle
May 20, 2009 5:20 PM | Link to this
My prayers and thoughts go to Jay’s family. He was a kind hearted man. I will remember the free Christmas dinners at jays.
By vernandvernetta@yahoo.com
May 20, 2009 5:14 PM | Link to this
we have been in winter haven fl. for the past 5 yrs.,,,will never forget jays,,,, so hope for the best for his family,,
By Angelo
May 20, 2009 5:05 PM | Link to this
Absoluely terrible news.A fine man who appreciated his customers as much as they appreciated him.
By David Vasconez
May 20, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this
I was on the same plane with Jay last week when he traveled to Death Valley. I rode with him from Dayton to Chicago and sat right in front of him, and then again from Chicago to Denver. He sounded so excited about this trip. As he put it, he was going to try and recreate all the fun he had as a college student. (He was meeting a college room mate and was going to retrace a road trip he took back in the day.) I got chills reading this article.
By Anne Orr
May 20, 2009 5:01 PM | Link to this
I am very sorry to hear about Mr. Jay Haverstick’s death. My family and I were praying for a safe return. I pray that Amy and her mother will stay strong for this sad moment. Amy, please remember that there will be joy after this sad moment. God will strengthened you and your family. May God take care of you and your family. The Orr and Ghoram family extend our sorrows.
By richie
May 20, 2009 4:59 PM | Link to this
with all due respect to Mr. Haverstick& obviously an intelligent man I must say as a part time resident of Palm Springs Ca.[the desert] & have been to Death Valley I would advise future visitors especially around this time of year not to venture off by themselves. Very dangerous place to visit under any circumstances.
By Stephanie Gottschlich
May 20, 2009 4:56 PM | Link to this
My family celebrated my parents’ 25th wedding anniversary at Jay’s restaurant two years ago, and Jay called them the next year before their anniversary to invite them back. Such a gracious and genuine person… This is such sad news.
By Bucks Braun
May 20, 2009 4:53 PM | Link to this
A great man, a great restaurantuer, a great friend. I am unspeakingly saddened. My thoughts are with Amy and the family. God bless you,Jay.
By Karyn
May 20, 2009 4:48 PM | Link to this
I am very sad to learn about Mr. Haverstick’s death. My condolences to his family and friends.
By Patty
May 20, 2009 4:47 PM | Link to this
I am so very sorry to hear the sad news. Our prayers are with Amy and her mother. Jay will be so sorely missed.
By michael
May 20, 2009 4:46 PM | Link to this
I am sad about the news of Jays death. Words fail me!
By Don Mottley
May 20, 2009 4:45 PM | Link to this
Dayton has lost a gentle, kind man, a gracious host, who loved his family and who shared his love of wine and food with all of us for so many years. Our prayers and best wishes to Amy and the rest of Jay’s family.
By Ted
May 20, 2009 4:43 PM | Link to this
So very sorry to hear of this latest update. Our prayers are with Amy and her mother, as well as all of the employees at Jays. So very sprry for your loss.
By Ted
May 20, 2009 4:39 PM | Link to this
Jay and his family are such wonderful people and a real asset to Dayton. My family and I are praying for his safe return.
By Patti & Tom
May 20, 2009 4:24 PM | Link to this
We are send good thoughts and wishes for Jays return. He is a wonderful, talnted man.
By Dayton resident
May 20, 2009 4:08 PM | Link to this
Mr. Haverstick has always been true to Dayton, he’s a great friend to many, not only a good businessman who supports this area and employs several people. I pray for his safe return, and pray for his family as well. May the Lord bless him and the Haverstick family and friends.
By JP
May 20, 2009 4:03 PM | Link to this
Hang in there Jay - wherever you are. You taught me many lesssons over the years and I hope this is not the last of them! God Bless!!!!
By Bill Welch
May 20, 2009 3:57 PM | Link to this
Jay is a long time member of the Dayton Tripod Camera Club and we are all desperately hoping for his safe recovery.
By Greg & Kathy Ingersoll
May 20, 2009 3:31 PM | Link to this
Our Prayers are with you.
By Anne Orr
May 20, 2009 3:18 PM | Link to this
Mr. Jay Haverstick is an awesome business person. I have met him on several occasions and he remembered me. I am retired from a seafood business which was established for 20 years and I was the second owner for 10 years in North West Dayton area. He always gave me excellent business advice and encouraged me to follow my dreams. I have enjoyed dining at his restaurant several times. He would always come by the table to say hello. My family and I are praying for him. I asked God to delivered him according to His will. Mr. Jay is a hero in the Dayton’s community. He appreciated his business and community peers from different cultures. Let us continue to pray for him, his family, and businesses.
By MAF
May 20, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this
Sad story hope they find him ok..
By Gordo
May 20, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this
I was in the restaurant ysterday eve when the call about him being missing came in. I hope they find him ok very soon. My prayers go out for him and his family.
By Don & Jean
May 20, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this
Jay is clearly our best restaurant owner friend. We hope for the best for him and his family.
By Gordo
May 20, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this
I was in the restaurant ysterday eve when the call about him being missing came in. I hope they find him ok very soon. My prayers go out for him and his family.
By Nothing more to say
May 20, 2009 2:58 PM | Link to this
I can do nothing but mirror everyone’s sentiments.Jay’s and Mr. Haverstock are Dayton treasures. I pray for his safe return.
By Anne
May 20, 2009 2:52 PM | Link to this
Jay is the friend of a former employer of mine. We went to Jay’s for lunch one day and met him. Wonderful man! I truly hope he is OK and will send out prayers for him.
By LL
May 20, 2009 2:51 PM | Link to this
This is so sad to hear. We love the restaurant. Hope he has a safe return home soon. Our thoughts are with him and his family.
By Johnie
May 20, 2009 2:50 PM | Link to this
Prayers for the family that he will be found safely, loved his resturant for years!
By CS
May 20, 2009 2:45 PM | Link to this
I used to hang out with his daughter Amy in high school. Only met Mr. and Mrs. Haverstick a couple of times and they are definitely a class act. My thoughts are with the Haverstick family.
By Anon
May 20, 2009 2:44 PM | Link to this
I met Jay once at a lunch outing. He gave all of us a copy of his calendar. Really nice man. I hope he returns safely.
By teresa
May 20, 2009 2:43 PM | Link to this
We love you all.see you when you get home
By ShorteeP
May 20, 2009 2:43 PM | Link to this
I have seen him, but never have met Jay, he seems to be a good man. I have been to his restaurant. My prayers are that he be found alvie and safe
By Willy4
May 20, 2009 2:36 PM | Link to this
Never personally met the man but our prayers are with him and for his safe return.
By Vicki
May 20, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this
I’m hoping for your safe return. Best restaurant in Dayton. My son is supposed to take me there for lunch next week. God bless.
By GAIL & CHESTER WOLFE
May 20, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this
Hope Jay has been found and is OK, our thoughts and prayers to the family and friends at the Rest.
By JT
May 20, 2009 2:26 PM | Link to this
I don’t know him but I will pray for him. I have been to that part of death valley and it is hotter then you know what there. It gets so hot you don’t sweat it evaporates right off your skin. I wish the rescuers the best in finding him.
By Jeb
May 20, 2009 2:23 PM | Link to this
My prayers to his family as well Where was his restaurant located at
By Jeb
May 20, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this
My prayers to his family as well, where was his restaurant located at?
By Candie
May 20, 2009 2:20 PM | Link to this
Great man! Praying for his safe return.
By ole
May 20, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this
dont no the man. but i said a prayer for him to be found ok.
By ole
May 20, 2009 2:15 PM | Link to this
dont no the man. but i said a prayer for him to be found ok.
By Rachel
May 20, 2009 2:15 PM | Link to this
I’m so heartbroken to hear this news. My husband and I love going to Jay’s and talking with him. I pray for his safe return and for his family.
By Trojan
May 20, 2009 2:13 PM | Link to this
Ditto to localguy - everyone should keep him and his family in their thoughts and prayers!
By GAIL & CHESTER WOLFE
May 20, 2009 2:11 PM | Link to this
A great friend, we hope he has been found and is ok, our thoughts and prayers to family and staff at Jay’s
By Boa
May 20, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this
Jay is a prince a fellow. I pray for his safe return.
By Doc
May 20, 2009 2:04 PM | Link to this
I too hope he is found safe and well, however, Death Valley with temps @ 115 is no place for an elderly person with cardiac issues. Especially having had a CABG. Prayers out…
By Trojan
May 20, 2009 1:55 PM | Link to this
Ditto to localguy - everyone should keep him and his family in their thoughts and prayers!
By Larry
May 20, 2009 1:55 PM | Link to this
I hope Jay Sr is okay!!!! I will say a quick prayer for him and his family!
By irishguy
May 20, 2009 1:53 PM | Link to this
we’re all praying for his safe return.
By me
May 20, 2009 1:53 PM | Link to this
Hope and pray he is okay.
By localguy
May 20, 2009 1:48 PM | Link to this
Nothing to say but Hope & Pray he’s OK.