George “Billy” Hardinger, 84, of Kirksville, Missouri, passed away Monday (December 5, 2011) at Kirksville Manor Care Center.

The son of George William and Erma (Artz) Hardinger, he was born October 15, 1927 in Sullivan County, Missouri. On September 30, 1969 in Novinger, Missouri, Billy was united in marriage to Julia E. VanLaningham who preceded him in death on July 13, 2010.

He was also preceded in death by his parents.

Billy is survived by his very special children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Linda and Eddie Powell of Novinger, MO, Stephanie and Brant VanSickel of Hallsville, MO and Kaden, Kiley, April and Tristan.

Billy was a graduate from Green City High School with the Class of 1944. He served in the United States Army from 1951 to 1953. He resided in Sun City, Arizona from 1978 to 2010. At that time, Billy moved back home and farmed a number of years in the Green City/Milan areas. You could also find him working at the Green City Sale Barn which he enjoyed.

Billy was a people person and enjoyed visiting with most anyone he met. He also loved his flowers.

He was a member of the American Legion and United Church of Sun City, AZ.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday (December 10, 2011) at Travis-Noe Funeral Home in Kirksville, with Chaplain Carol Davenport presiding. Music selections “In The Garden” and “God Will Take Care of You” will be provided by Doug Williams and Leroy Martin who will be accompanied by Dianthe Cable, organist. Interment will follow the service at Novinger Cemetery in Novinger, Missouri.

Family will receive friends one hour before service time on Saturday (December 10, 2011) in the chapel of Travis-Noe Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Ed Powell, Brant VanSickel, Gary Powell, Glenn Kiger, Jerry Kiger and Kyle Kent.

Expressions of sympathy in memory of Billy Hardinger may be made to Hospice of Northeast Missouri. Memorials may be left at or mailed to Travis-Noe Funeral Home, P.O. Box 306, Kirksville, MO 63501.