Hardman A. Astley

Hardman A. Astley, affectionately known as “Hardy” to his family and friends, passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at the New Hampshire Veterans Home in Tilton, New Hampshire, at the age of 92. Hardman was born on March 31, 1934, in Belmont, Massachusetts. Over the course of his 92 years, he touched countless lives with his humor and charm.

He graduated from Hartford High School in 1952 and began his working life as a foreman at Tip Top Bakery. Hardman proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1957 to 1959. Stationed at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, he served as a Medical Aidman. Following active duty, he continued his military service in the U.S. Army Reserve until receiving an honorable discharge in 1962.

On June 19, 1959, Hardman married his sweetheart, Joan Wing. Together they raised their family in Wilder, Vermont. Hardman had a fulfilling career as a respiratory therapist at Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital, where he worked until his retirement in 1995.

In 1990, he and Joan moved to Lyme, New Hampshire. There, Hardman devoted himself to serving the community as a volunteer with the Lyme Fire Department and Fast Squad. He was also an active member of the American Legion and the Elks Club in Lebanon, New Hampshire. A lifelong hockey enthusiast, Hardman refereed for Hartford youth hockey and spent many years as an usher at Dartmouth College hockey games, combining his love of the sport with his enjoyment of being part of the community. In his later years, he treasured the friendships he made at the Bugbee Senior Center in White River Junction.

He is survived by his daughters, Jane (Craig Taylor) Astley and Sara (Victor) Newcity; his son, Hardman (Beth) Astley; his brothers, Maurice (Cindy) Reynolds and George (Jean) Astley; three grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Joan, and by his parents, Hardman and Luvia Astley (Garey).

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bugbee Senior Center or the Wounded Warrior Project.

A funeral will be held at the Greater Hartford United Church of Christ on November 10 at 1:00 p.m., followed by a reception. Condolences may be shared in the online guestbook at Knight Funeral Homes.