Irene Mae Vancil

Irene (Hollinger) Hastings Vancil, 94, passed away on December 24, 2025, at the home of her daughter in Lamar, Missouri, surrounded by her loving family. Born on November 25, 1931, in Brush, Colorado, to Elmer and Grace Hollinger, Irene lived a long and meaningful life defined by devotion, resilience, and deep love for her family.

In 1949, Irene married the love of her life, Johnny Hastings, and together they raised five children—Pam, Laurie, Vickie, Debbie, and Rob—while making homes in Snyder and Brush, Colorado; Stanberry, Missouri; Carbondale, Colorado; and Springfield, Oregon. A true homemaker in every sense, Irene had an extraordinary gift for turning any place she lived into an immaculate, welcoming home. Her work ethic was unmatched, and her dedication to caring for her family and her surroundings could be seen in every detail of her life.

After Johnny’s passing, Irene found companionship and joy again when she married Gene Vancil, with whom she shared many meaningful years until his passing in 2017.

Irene was a woman of many talents. She excelled in a range of hobbies—including gardening and painting—where her creativity, patience, and appreciation for beauty shined. Whether nurturing flowers or bringing a blank canvas to life with color, she poured pride, joy, and artistry into everything she touched.

She is survived by her children: Pam Manitz, whose husband Mike preceded her in death; Laurie Nuding and her husband John; Vickie Pieper and her husband Dan; Debra Philpott, whose husband Tracy also preceded her; Rob Hastings and his wife Cleta, and stepdaughter Marla Dickson and husband Marvin. Irene also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, and extended family members who will forever cherish her warmth, strength, and unwavering love.

Though she lived in several places throughout her life, Irene’s heart always remained connected to her hometown of Brush, Colorado. Her values of hard work, kindness, and family shaped not only her own life but the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A celebration of Irene’s life will be held at a later date. Per her wishes, her ashes will be lovingly buried near her husband Johnny at the Stoneham Cemetery in Colorado—returning her to the place and the person who held her heart for so many years.

Her final days were spent peacefully, embraced by the deep love of the family she devoted her life to.

If you would like to make a memorial contribution the family suggests the Jake Hastings Scholarship Fund.  Send contributions in care of Jim Hastings to 10402 Tracewood Dr., Highlands Ranch, CO 80130.