Allen E. Hastings

ATHOL - Allen E. Hastings, 99 of 2894 Chestnut Hill Ave., Athol, died Saturday, March 14, 2009 in the Wachusett Manor Nursing Home, Gardner. He was born in Athol, on April 11, 1909, the son of the late James E. and the late Nellie (Allen) Hastings. He grew up in Athol and graduated from Athol High School. He received his PhD in Physics from Brown University. Mr. Hastings worked for the U.S. Naval Research laboratories on development of early radar. After taking early retirement, he built his own home and went into cabinet making. For many years he built and repaired organs and was a church organist for over 35 years. He was the longest standing member of the Athol Congregational Church and was the organist at the First Church Templeton for many years and for a short time he was the organist at St. Francis of Assisi Church. He enjoyed astronomy, photography, hiking and camping. He was a boy scout leader for several years. He leaves two sisters, Eleanor Kimball of Torrington, CT, Marion Lillie of Athol and many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by four brothers, Emory Hastings, Errol Hastings, Howard Hastings and Alton Hastings. Graveside services will be held Saturday, April 18, 2009 at 2:00 pm in Highland Cemetery, Highland Ave., Athol. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in his memory to a charity of one's choice. $(document).ready(function(){ });