After playing for the Lord at Christian services for 60 years, Richard (Dick) Hastede retired as organist with his last service on Palm Sunday, April 5, 2004. Dick's 60 years was served mostly in the Cold Spring area.
Dick started playing the piano at the age of 10 in Sunday school at the Baptist Church. He later became their organist and dedicated the next 40 years there. In 1992, Dick shared his gift and became the organist at St. Mary's Church in the Highlands for 12 years until retiring on April 5, 2004.
Dick resides with his wife, Nancy, in Nelsonville. Dick retired as organist in order to enjoy the services by her side and to allow more time for family and travel.
Although no longer organist, Dick's life is still fulfilled with music. He stays busy playing for weddings, Masonic services, substitute organist, and tuning pianos. Dick also gets his exercise playing his cornet in two marching bands marching for the Port Chester American Legion and the Blue Crew Marching Band out of Thornwood.
Thank you, Dick, for your years as organist and sharing your 'Joyful Sound Unto the Lord'.