Billie L. "Bill" Hasten

Billie L. Bill Hasten, 86, of Phoenix, AZ, formerly of LaHarpe, IL passed away 1:11 AM Sunday, February 19, 2017 at Ryan House Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix, AZ.

Bill was born on December 13, 1930 in Fountain Green, IL the son of Carl and Jessie McConnell Hasten. He married Cerece Alton on June 24, 1951 in Fountain Green.

After graduating from LaHarpe High School in 1948 he enlisted in the Navy. He served for 2 years and then joined the reserves. Bill and Cerece then purchased Hasten Newstand. In 1952 he was called back to active duty and served in Washington DC on the USS Keller for 2 additional years. Following his active duty Bill returned to LaHarpe to assist his wife in running Hasten Newstand.

Bill and Cerece Sold Hasten Newstand and then Bill went into partnership with Wayne Yetter to form LaHarpe Motor Sales. Bill continued in business until 2001.

Bill was active at the LaHarpe Christian Church where he served as a Sunday School teacher, Deacon and Elder. He was a volunteer fireman for the LaHarpe Fire Department. He was a member of the Lions Club, Golden Rule Club, and was a member of the LaHarpe Masonic Lodge.

He was a man of strong faith and honesty. All who knew Bill admired his character, humor and loyalty. He loved spending time with his family and friends and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife; two daughters: Janel Schneider of Phoenix, AZ, Jill (Bill) Dyer of Golden, CO; four grandchildren: Jessica Schneider Morris, Justin Schneider, Ashley Dyer McManus, Brice Dyer; four great-grandchildren: Brady McManus, Benjamin McManus, Hasten McManus, Amelia Morris and one sister: Margie Walker.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; one son-in-law: Kirk Schneider; two brothers: Carl Jr. and Jim Hasten and two sisters: Jean Blumer and Christine DeHaven.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 PM Sunday, June 11, 2017 at the LaHarpe Christian Church, LaHarpe, IL with Nate McCarter officiating. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall.  A private burial will be held at McConnell Cemetery, rural LaHarpe. A memorial fund has been established for the LaHarpe Christian Church and Hospice of The Valley in Phoenix. Contributions may be mailed to The Bill Hasten Memorial Fund, C/O Banks & Beals Funeral Home, PO Box 503, LaHarpe, IL 61450.