Hastings, Holman K., 1853 or 54-1923

HASTINGS, ROWELL, RENSHAW

Posted By: Lydia Lucas - Volunteer (email)
Date: 5/21/2017 at 08:34:34

From the Rock Valley Bee, August 31, 1923:

DR. H. K. HASTINGS

Dr. H. K. Hastings passed away at his home in Rock Valley after an illness of two months duration, of cancer of the stomach, Monday, August 20, 1923.

The subject of this sketch was born at Bristoe [i.e., Bristol], New Hampshire, October 15, 1853, and grew to manhood in that community. At the time of his death he had attained the age of sixty-nine years, ten months and five days. He received his preparatory education in Bristoe and was fitted for college at the New Hampshire Conference Seminary. When nineteen years old, he received authority to preach in the Methodist Church and later was received into the Vermont Conference, where he filled several charges very successfully.

While engaged in the active ministry, in Vermont, he was chosen Superintendent of public schools for a period of two years, and from 1880 to 1882, was a member of the Vermont State Legislature, and was active and influential in pushing to successful issues some important measures of legislation.

Early in life he formed the acquaintance of Miss Mary Rowell, of South Royalton, Vermont. This acquaintance culminated in their marriage April 29, 1879. They were the parents of two children, Adams R. Hastings, of Minneapolis, Minn., and Mrs. Blanche L. Scott, of Spencer, Iowa who survive him.

He came to the Northwest Iowa Conference of the Methodist Church in 1885 and was stationed at Odebolt. He was a leading and influential member of the Conference. While serving as pastor at Webster City, in 1892, he was bereft of the companion of his youth.

Mr. Hastings had an intense desire for knowledge, and he felt that a college training was indispensable. He entered the Illinois Wesleyan University at Bloomington, and after two years of study in that institution, he received the degree of A. M. and Ph. D. He was also active in the founding of Morningside College, Sioux City and did much to make the project a success.

He contributed several poems of merit to the periodical press, and several articles on theological and other subjects. He published a book entitled the "Epworth League Word for the Work," and another, "Manhood, the Supreme Heritage of God's People." He was a man of literary attainment and much force of character. He served with efficiency as Superintendent of the Sheldon District of the Northwest Iowa Conference of the Methodist Church.

He was married to Miss Stella Renshaw, June 28, 1900 by Bishop W. S. Lewis and their married life was most pleasant. In 1905, he sustained injuries in a railroad accident which incapacitated him for active service, and he devoted his time to secular pursuits. He located in Rock Valley twelve years ago and continuously resided here until his passing.

Dr. Hastings was a polished gentleman, of the old school, so rarely seen in these days. He was a man of Christian character. His words were never dominated by angry thoughts. His speech was never influenced by ill will. His deeds were never influenced by selfishness. There was a knightly courtesy in his manner, which was charming as it was rare. There was a chasteness of expression, a refinement of speech in his conversation that challenged admiration. These are some of his characteristics that are worthy of admiration.

Funeral services were conducted at the home Thursday afternoon, August 23, at 2:30 o'clock. Rev. J. L. Shroyer, of Sanborn, a former pastor here, delivered the message of the hour, and was assisted by Rev. Arrasmith, of Sheldon, Rev. T. S. Bassett, and Rev. Arthur F. Schuldt, of Hull. Many floral offerings were contributed as an evidence of the esteem in which he is held in this community. Interment was made in the Valley View Cemetery. The family have the profound sympathy of a large circle of friends in their hour of sorrow.

(The obituary includes a photograph)

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A similar obituary was published in the Alton Democrat, September 1, 1923. It adds that Stella S. Renshaw had devoted several years to teaching in the public school of Rock Valley; and that he retired from active ministry in 1911 and afterwards was prominent in the activities of the Rock Valley church.

The Sioux County Cemetery Index has Hastings, Holman K., b. 1854, d. 19 Aug 1923, Valley View Cem Rock Valley IA.