Arthur Steward, Jr.

Arthur Steward, Jr. of Hastings, Michigan.
With the loving grace of God and in the caring hands of hospice, Arthur Steward, Jr., passed away Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at the age of 92.

The longtime director of bands at Hastings schools, leaves a lasting legacy of music in the hearts of generations of band students and the community.

Arthur was born on May 18, 1926 in Parsons, Kansas, the son of Arthur Door and Myrtie Ethel (Williams) Steward.  He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1944, and Western Michigan College in 1948.  Art honorably served during WWII where he received a Purple Heart during his time of service.  He married Betty Wight on June 11, 1947 and they enjoyed 66 years together.

Art worked for Wayland Union School from 1949 to 1957, and Hastings Public School from 1957 until his retirement in 1981 as the band and music instructor.   He was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Hastings, of the VFW Bands, past president of the Hastings Chamber of Commerce, United Way Campaign Chair, past president of the Hastings Kiwanis, and past Hastings City Band Director.  He enjoyed spending time with his many friends at GulfShore Park in Long Boat Key, Florida.

Art was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Betty Steward, daughter, Gerry Lynn  Steward, and son, Thomas Steward.   He is survived by his son, Steven (Debra) Steward of Hastings, daughter-in-law, Sue Steward of Eaton Rapids, grandchildren, Kyle (Stacy) Steward of Hastings, Tiffany (Charles) Tefft of Hastings, Morgan (Brandon) Johnson of Hastings, Annie Steward of Jackson, Natalie Steward of Eaton Rapids, Wayne (Hattie) Steward of Minneapolis, Christopher Steward of Eaton Rapids, John  (Jenny) Steward of Eaton Rapids, and 11 great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions can be made to Hastings Band Boosters (Gerry Lynn Steward Memorial Scholarship Award).

A Celebration of Life and Music will be held on July 28, 2018 at 10:00 am at Green Street United Methodist Church.  A tribute band made up of retired and active band directors and former students will honor Mr. Steward with the playing of "The Stars and Stripes Forever" during the Memorial Service.  A private family burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Hastings.