Isaac Hayes died Sunday, August 10th at the age of 65 of an apparent heart attack. Found collapsed next to his treadmill, he was rushed to a local Memphis, Tennessee hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Reports vary on the cause of death, with one report claiming a simultaneous stroke and heart attack. This may be supported by a mild stroke he suffered in January of 2006. The family has also stated that Hayes was under care for a number of medical conditions including high blood pressure.

All signs point to a natural cause of death.

Hayes is best known as the deep voiced singer of the Theme to Shaft, which won the 1971 Oscar and two Grammy awards. To a younger generation, he voiced the character of Chef on South Park, before quitting the show due a conflict with his Scientology beliefs.

Isaac will be remembered for the great impact he made on music, ranging from soul to rap to funk. Oddly, Hayes and Bernie Mac will be featured in the movie Soul Men, scheduled to be released in November 2008.

While Hayes was found near a treadmill, please don’t give the shaft to your exercise program. It’s an important part of keeping healthy at any age.

We wish the entire Hayes family our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Please leave your comments, recollections and thoughts.