Russell Hastings

Russell Hastings began his early education in Nebraska where his father farmed corn. At the age of ten, his father died unexpectedly, so carrying only a sack lunch, he and his sister were sent to California to live with their mother and step-father. Russell's mother and step-father had to hitchhike from Highland Park in order to meet them at Union Station in Los Angeles, but luckily his great grandfather was there to meet them when they arrived. As soon as Russell's mother and step-father found work, the family moved to Alhambra. At the age of fifteen, Russell dropped out of school to join the Navy.Russell joined the Navy and found fulfillment while serving his county. He took part in the battle for control of the Aleution Islands, while being stationed at Aadak and Aateu. He was eventually stationed at Bremerton Navel Base and the Pasco Washington Airstation. He became an aviation aircraft mechanic second class, and was in line for Petty Officer when it was discovered that he had lost the sight in his left eye. He was ultimately sent to the Seattle Navel Hospital, then San Diego Hosptial where he was Honorably Discharged.Russell married Anna Anderson in Spokane, Washington, on July 7, 1944. They were married until she died after a long illness in September 2008, a total of 54 years. He went to visit her everyday until her passing. Russell was a true sports fan and loved all sports. He was an accomplished trap shooter and won the state championship for his age of 60 years. He was also an avid reader and especially enjoyed history. He also liked to play cards and especially cribbage, and gin rummy.Russell was very patriotic and flew the American Flag everyday of his life.He was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans, 50 year member of the Masonic Order, East Whittier and La Habra Lodge member, member of the NRA, and member of the 'Bears' Trap Shooting Club.Russell was a Christian and cherished his faith.Russell had two daughters and a son: Carole Press, who currently resides in Whittier, California, Sue Ann Weikle, who passed in 2002, and Steven Russell Hastings, who passed in 2004.He leaves granddaughters, Tammara Lyn Baer-Turner, Tonia Leigh Roybal, and Candace Holley Netland.He also leaves grandchildren, Matthew Holley, Chelsea Baer and Jeremy Turner, along with two nieces and a nephew, and his sister, Pat McGill.A funeral service will take place on Monday, December 5, 2011, at 10 am in the chapel at White Emerson Mortuary, 13304 E Philadelphia Street, Whittier, California, 90601.Following the service, interment will take place at 1pm at the National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, California, 92518.