Patricia Kay Hastings

On any given day, you could find Pat laughing, loving, and living without apology. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, a three-time cancer survivor, and the fiercest example of resilience you could imagine, Pat left this world the same way she lived in it – with courage, humor, and a sparkle in her eye.

Over the years, Pat faced more than her share of health challenges – but in true Pat fashion, she managed to outwit them long enough to fill her life with beauty, adventure, and people she adored. “Lucky” is what she often called herself, but really, it was everyone else who was lucky to know her.

Pat shared 42 beautiful years of marriage with her husband, Mike Hastings, before his passing 10 years ago. Together, they built a life full of laughter, love, and a family that continues to carry both of their legacies forward.

She is survived by her favorite daughter, RyAnne Elsesser, and her husband Dave, along with their trio of beloved grandpups – Toby, Blue, and Winnie – who all knew Grandma’s lap was the coziest spot in the house. She is also survived by her favorite son, James Hastings, and his partner Trish Trudo. Pat beamed with pride for her favorite grandson, Ryan Hastings, and her favorite granddaughter, Elizabeth Clark. Pat leaves behind her brothers, Bob Furman of Florida and Richard Furman of Louisville, Kentucky, and her sister, Jean Perkins of Wichita Falls, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Barb Furman.

And then there are the friends. Oh, the friends. If you were lucky enough to share a cup of coffee, a shot of Fireball, attend a Husker volleyball game, take a vacation with her, sit out on the front porch, or laugh until your sides hurt, you know she made you feel like family. She collected friendships like treasures and polished them with her humor, honesty, and unwavering loyalty. She would want every single one of you to raise a glass, tell a story, and remember that life is best lived surrounded by those who love you.

Pat never cared about the length of life - she cared about the quality. Her message was simple: Choose Happiness. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Live it up every single chance you get.

So let’s do what Pat would want: Choose Happiness. Laugh a little louder. And take the shot of Fireball.

There will be a Celebration of Life Service on Sunday, February 15 at Oak Hills Country Club. Family will receive friends from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the celebration beginning at 1:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be available throughout the visitation and service. Pat will be laid to rest with her husband, Mike, at Omaha National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Pat requested that memorial gifts be directed to the Inner Beauty Salon at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center – a special place that helps cancer patients feel beautiful inside and out.