Cecil Hastings

Cecil Eugene "Gene" Hastings was born on September 17, 1939, in Independence, KS, to Cecil Rufus Hastings and May Hudiburg Hastings. He passed away August 11, 2017, at home at the age of 77 years.

Gene graduated from Field Kindley High School in 1957 and studied at Kansas State University, Washington University in St. Louis, and the University of Missouri, where he earned a master's degree in zoology. He wrestled competitively for several years of his education. His first wife was Corazon Riel; they had two children together, Nelson and Ernestine. During the marriage, he studied water buffalo in the Philippines. He also collected numerous animal specimens in the Midwest.

On October 7, 1976, Gene married Yalala Throckmorton. They had a daughter, Heather. For most of his career, Gene worked at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center as a medical chemist. He also was employed in various capacities, including in the meat department, at the family-owned grocery store, Nu Way, later known as Elmore's IGA. The family made many memories while camping and fishing. Although he experienced a number of health problems after retirement, Gene always retained his practical, positive nature, sense of humor, and faith in God. He was devoted to Yalala, his children, and his grandchildren.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Yalala Hastings; sisters, Frances Johnson and Donna Elmore; children, Nelson Hastings and wife Amy of Rockville, MD, Ernestine Moser and husband Scott of Pittsburg, KS, and Heather Copithke and husband Keith of Independence, KS; and grandchildren, Peter Hastings, Brandon and Elizabeth Moser, and Abbigale Copithke. A private memorial service was held on August 13. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com