GREENFIELD, Ind. – Laurel Malcom Hardisty, age 95, of Greenfield, passed away Nov. 11, 2021, at Hancock Regional Hospital. He was born in Sylvania, Ind., in Greene County, on April 18, 1926, to Festus Bryan and Alta Hermoine (Quimby) Hardisty. He was a 1944 graduate of Solsberry High School and a sergeant of the U.S. Army, having served in the 100th Infantry Division in Europe during World War II. He married Marjorie Ann (Weaver) on May 26, 1948, in Linton, Ind.

He was a life-long grain and livestock farmer in Greene and Hancock counties. In addition, he served as a supervisor on the Hancock County Soil and Water Conservation District board. He was an original co-owner of Hancock County Tractor & Implement Massey Ferguson Dealership in Greenfield, and he also assembled some of their new machinery. He was a Pioneer Seed Corn grower, and he raised and delivered genetic breeding hogs for Kleen-Leen.

He is survived by his wife, Marjorie Hardisty; daughters, Sue Ann Nigh (Stephen) and Jane Ellen Hardisty; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Lloyd Enlow Hardisty; a sister, Edna Louise Carmichael; and a grandson, Brett Andrew Nigh.

He was an accomplished woodworker and carpenter. This talent started when he returned from his military service and began working with his father building houses and barns. Later, he had his own portable sawmill and complete woodworking shop. He established the “Country Woodshop” where he made mini-barns, furniture and several other items. When he wasn’t working his farm or woodworking, he spent time gardening and cutting grass.

Awards and recognitions included Indiana Prairie Farmer 2000 Master Farmer Conservationist, 50+ year member of Indiana Farm Bureau, 70-year member of the American Legion Post #450 and a member of Disciples of Christ Christian Church.

The funeral was Nov. 18 at Solsberry United Methodist Church. Pastor Mathew Whitacre officiated. Burial was in Solsberry Cemetery with military honors. Erlewein Mortuary and Crematory, Greenfield, was in charge of arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Indiana, 435 Limestone St, Indianapolis, IN 46229 or Ball State University Foundation, Soil & Water Conservation Fund, 2800 W. Bethel Ave, Muncie, IN 47304. Friends may share a memory or condolence at www.erleweinmortuary.com.