Joel Hasting

1952 - 2018

Joel David Hasting

Joel David Hasting lost his courageous battle against cancer on August 22, 2018 with his loving son, Gregory, by his side. Joel was born on February 9, 1952 in Glendale, California, to Norma Jane Chiatovich and her husband, Jack Elmo Cowart. Joel was later adopted by Norma's second husband, Marion William Hasting. Joel graduated from San Lorenzo High School in Santa Cruz, California where he was a star football player and homecoming royalty. He graduated from California State University at Northridge with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and later obtained his teaching credential.

Joel worked for the Sacramento City Unified School District as a teacher. During his career he taught at John Still and Ethel Phillips Elementary Schools. Joel was a successful and effective teacher, who cared deeply about his students and his calling, earning the honor of "Teacher of the Year" on numerous occasions. Joel was also an accomplished hang glider pilot, having flown for over 30 years, making many good friends and memories along the way. As a proud member of the US Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association he was a Hang 4 advanced pilot. Not only did Joel love soaring, he also loved the ocean and in his younger days could be found catching waves on his knee board up and down the California central coastline, as well as Mexico. His athleticism and enthusiasm for the sport led to many knee boarding championships. If you spent any time with Joel you know how much he loved music of all genres, a passion he shared with his son, Gregory, a talented musician himself. Whether listening to classic Beach Boys with headphones in his room, or rocking out at a Primus concert, it was apparent that Joel had a spiritual connection to good music.

Not only was Joel a devoted father, his loyalty and generosity made him a valued, life-long friend to many who grieve his passing. He will be remembered for his amusing stories, historical antidotes, and political commentary, most often delivered with a big smile and contagious giggle.

Joel leaves behind his loving son, Gregory Hasting and fiancée, Kelly Gordon; former wife and devoted friend, Constance Wyatt; older brother Jack Cowart and wife Sue; younger brother, Robin Hasting; sister, Judy Hasting Horn and husband, Richard; and former in-laws, Ronald and Lona Wyatt as well as many extended family members.

A memorial service is planned for September 29, 2018 at 4:20 p.m. at San Francisco's Fort Funston in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. A Facebook page (www.facebook.com/events/828021987406155) "Padre Bash" has been created for the event for those wishing to RSVP and/or share memories and pictures. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the US Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association to promote the popularity and safety of the sport Joel loved.