Arthur “Artie” J. Astore, 86, of Housatonic died Tuesday March 7, 2017 at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield. He was born in West Stockbridge on November 24, 1930 son of Charles and Tilia (Lovato) Astore.
He was a graduate of the former Williams High School class of 1948. After graduation Arthur proudly served his country with the Marines during the Korean War. Arthur worked for many years with his wife Virginia (Bearce) Astore as an interior decorator. Virginia and Arthur were married on July 11, 1953.
Arthur was also a pilot at the Great Barrington Airport, one of Walt Koladza’s best pilots. Arthur enjoyed hunting and fishing at Long Pond, gardening and working in the yard, golfing at Wyantenuck Country Club where he was a member for over 40 years, country music and spending time with his family and his grandchildren.
Arthur is survived by his wife of 63 years, Virginia (Bearce) Astore; daughter-in-law, Catherine “Cathi” Banach Astore; one sister, Tilia DeRose of North Carolina; and three grandchildren, Chad Astore, Claire Astore and Craig Astore. Arthur was predeceased by his son, Charles “Chick” Astore, sister Virginia Gennari, and favorite nephew Victor Gennari.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, March 17 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the BIRCHES-ROY FUNERAL HOME, 33 South St., Great Barrington MA 01230. Reception to follow at Crissey Farms from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. Condolences may be made through birchesroyfuneralservices.com.
