George E. Hastings

ORANGE - George E. Hastings, Jr., 77, of Orange died Saturday, March 5, 2016 at home surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Hastings was born March 8, 1938 in Athol, the son of the late George E. and the late Gladys M. (Barney) Hastings. George grew up and lived in Athol most of his life attending Athol schools and since 1999 has resided in Orange. He served his country in the United States Army. He worked for L. S. Starrett Company for many years in the tool room, retiring in 2000. He enjoyed fishing, old cars, radios, records, movies, and antiques of all kinds. He said, "My wife Marcia was the love of my life, a love that continued to grow everyday". He also enjoyed his whippets, Roger and Nancy. In George's words, "To my family and friends, enjoy life, family and each other. It's over to soon." He is survived by two sisters, Carol Lenarz, Kay Ernst, two daughters, Candace Puntanen and her husband Rick of Hubbardston, Melissa Cormier and her husband John of Templeton; four sons, Michael Hastings and his wife Maureen of Maine, James Hastings and his fiancée Amy Underwood of New Hampshire, Gary Hastings and his wife Cynthia of Phillipston, Christopher Hastings and his wife Yuna of England; David Poirier of Gardner, a step daughter, Diana Deveneau of Orange; 15 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife of 13 years, Marcia D. (Savoy) Hastings who died in 2012, and by a brother, Barry Hastings. Funeral services will be private. The family suggests that memorial donations in George’s memory be made to the Gardner Visiting Nursing Association Hospice Program 34 Pearly Lane, Gardner, MA 01440. To send an online condolence please visit www.mackfamilyfh.com. Higgins-O’Connor Funeral Home 146 Main St., Athol is directing arrangements.