Stephen Michael Hastings Obituary, Indianapolis Indiana Death at 71 – Musician, Councilman and Man of Many Talents Remembered After Alzheimer’s Battle
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana — Stephen Michael Hastings, 71, of Indianapolis, died on September 26, 2026, following a nearly decade-long battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
Known affectionately as Steve, Hastings died with his daughter and son-in-law by his side, according to his published obituary. He is remembered as a man whose life included careers in business and real estate, music, public service, craftsmanship and family life.
Stephen Michael Hastings Cause of Death
Stephen Hastings’ death followed a nearly 10-year battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
His published obituary states that he spent his final years in memory care and his final three years receiving hospice care. Even as the disease progressed, family members and caregivers remembered moments when his personality remained visible through smiles, expressions and his connection with people around him.
A Life Filled With Many Careers
Steve Hastings worked in several different fields during his life.
He served as a supervisor at Blaw-Knox Company and Dietrich Industries in Northwest Indiana before briefly working for K-mart.
During the 1990s, he became a realtor and house flipper, renovating homes and selling properties long before home-renovation programs became a major television trend.
Later, he traveled to craft shows selling wire-wrapped gemstones. He also served on the St. John Town Council, continuing his connection to community service.
Music Was an Important Part of Steve’s Life
Music was another defining part of Hastings’ story.
A 1973 graduate of Gavit High School in Hammond, Indiana, Steve sang tenor in choir and received the prestigious Airon Award for outstanding achievement in choir. He also earned four first-place medals in district competition.
His love of music continued throughout adulthood and remained an important part of how family and friends remembered him.
Family and Loved Ones Remember Stephen
Steve was a father, grandfather, brother and uncle.
He is survived by his daughter, Tara, son-in-law Brent, grandchildren Elisabette “Bette,” Haley and Asa “Jet,” sister Melinda, and nieces Jaime and Savanna.
One of the proudest moments of his later life came in August 2020, when he was able to walk his daughter down the aisle despite his transition into memory care. His family also remembered the warmth he continued to show to caregivers, including his fondness for small cherry pies.
Stephen Hastings Funeral and Memorial Arrangements
A celebration of life is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Christ the Savior Lutheran Church in Fishers, Indiana.
The family will receive visitors from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m. Burial will be private, with final interment planned at Elmwood Cemetery in Hammond.
The family has suggested memorial donations to the CTS music ministry, Joy’s House or Walk to End Alzheimer’s in lieu of flowers.
Stephen Michael Hastings’ Legacy
Stephen Michael Hastings leaves behind a life that cannot be reduced to his final illness.
He was a musician, businessman, realtor, craftsman, public servant, father, grandfather, brother and friend. His varied interests and willingness to take on different challenges reflected the many talents remembered by those closest to him.
His family and friends will continue to carry those memories forward as they mourn his death.
Stephen Michael Hastings, 71, will be remembered for his music, family, community involvement and many different talents, as his loved ones gather to celebrate a life that extended far beyond his long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.