Joseph 'Jim' Lee Hastings was born May 5, 1922 in Portland, Oregon, the son of Joseph Czerney and Merle (Matthews) Hastings. He grew up in Portland, and attended grade school at Lauryl Hearst, high school at Ulysses Grant, the University of Portland, and two years of law school at Northwestern College of Law in Portland. He served his country in the United States Navy as a Lieutenant from 1943 - 47 during WWII and 1950 - 52 during the Korean War. On September 3, 1947, Jim was united in marriage to Barbara Alleyene Eggers at Pendleton, Oregon. This marriage was blessed with two children and 35 years of marriage. Barbara passed away in 1982. Jim worked at American Hardware Mutual, later starting his own business in Benson, Hastings Insurance Agency. He was a life member of the VFW Post #1403, the American Legion, and the Zuhrah Temple. Jim volunteered for the American Red Cross. Among the things he enjoyed most were dancing, reading, and especially spending time with family and friends at the cabin on Lake Scandi. Jim was called from this life on Wednesday, October 13, 2010 at Homestead North in Benson. He attained the age of 88 years, 5 months and 9 days. Jim is survived by his children: Steve (Ellen) Hastings of St. Cloud and Leslie (Jeff) Jacobson of Benson; one grandchild, Jennifer (John) Goodall; three great grandchildren: Azura Goodall, Alexa Krats, and Robert Krats; and other relatives and friends. Preceding him in death were his wife Barbara; parents: Joseph and Merle; a brother, Charles Hastings, and an infant sister.