EAST WINDSOR, CONNECTICUT — A 69-year-old East Windsor man who died after becoming pinned beneath a tractor-trailer at his workplace is being remembered by loved ones as someone with a sharp sense of humor who “could make anyone laugh.”

Police said William “Bill” Hastings, 69, was performing maintenance work when the tractor-trailer rolled backward, leaving him wedged and trapped beneath the vehicle. Investigators determined the truck’s movement caused the fatal incident.

Hastings’ family says the loss was sudden and unexpected. According to his obituary, Hastings was born September 30, 1956, to Eugene Blair and Patricia Hastings in Noblesville, Indiana, later growing up in Cochranton, Pennsylvania. He went on to start B & J Auto Transport, a transport services company he co-owned and operated for more than 40 years, with his family saying he ran the business with pride and believed every client should be treated with care and respect.

Hastings married Jacqueline “Jacquie” Olisky in 2013, after knowing her for 40 years, according to his obituary. His family also launched a GoFundMe saying there was no insurance policy to cover funeral costs. As of Saturday, the fundraiser had reached $13,200 of its $16,000 goal, and his funeral service is scheduled for January 15. A relative, Margaret Olisky, wrote that Hastings was “an amazing person,” known for “quick wit and snappy comebacks,” and said the family is heartbroken.

In his obituary, Hastings was described as someone who loved spending time with his grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and his beloved dog. He also had a passion for old cars, enjoyed motorcycle rides, and liked tinkering with lawn equipment, reflecting how he loved working with his hands and getting outside.

Hastings is survived by his wife and his children — William Hastings Jr., Daniel Hastings, Lori McLamb, and David Hastings — along with his grandchildren.

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