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David L. Hochstetler, age 72, of Sturgis, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 3, 2023 in the arms of his beloved wife at home, following a short illness. He is now a resident of Heaven with many loved ones who went before him.
He was born in Sturgis on October 19, 1951 and was a graduate of Sturgis High School class of 1970. David was a rare breed of man, sensitive, thoughtful, and caring. He loved deeply and never thought twice about helping someone at home or in the community.
David was a native of Sturgis, although he called other places home in his “misspent youth”. He returned to Sturgis and met and fell in love with his wife to be, Deb (Frohriep) in 1976. They were smitten from the first dance and were married September 3, 1977. They’ve had many amazing adventures together and have traveled much of the world.
He worked for several years at Owens Classic Mfg. before starting Delta III with his father, Omar, and friend, Dan Breejen. That business thrived and was eventually sold. After a brief early retirement, he decided to go into the real estate business and so began his second career, the highlight of that was achieving #1 in the county for several years. He was dubbed “The King of Real Estate” by Omar. He was a fine example of hard work paying off. This was a life lesson he passed along to many, especially his 3 amazing children, who loved him dearly. Each of them were able to surround him in his final week, reliving stories of their parents, and memories of the past.
David was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church and a true prayer warrior. David would want you to know, if he told you he would pray for you, he did it. David enjoyed crying at movies, great food, traveling, and hunting.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara, his father and best friend, Omar, father-in-law: Jack Frohriep, a nephew, Manny, grandparents, and several true friends.
David is survived by his wife Deborah, three children, Gretchen (Brandon) Cropsey, Lynsey (Andrew) Disbrow, & Casey (Katalina) Hochstetler. 5 grandchildren, Andrew & Sarah Cropsey, Clay Hochstetler, and Dylan & Lauren Disbrow. Sisters: Ruth (Randy) King and Debi Bodett and several nieces and nephews.
He was a true example of a family man, always around for a hug, and I love you, and encouragement. He will be deeply missed by many who look forward to seeing him someday in Heaven.
The family will receive friends & relatives on Friday, December 8th, from 4 to 7 pm at the Rosenberg Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes, 807 E. Chicago Road in Sturgis. A memorial service celebrating the life of David L. Hochstetler will be held on Saturday, December 9th at 11:00 am at Trinity Lutheran Church, 406 S. Lakeview, Sturgis, MI 49091. The Revs. Larry Matro and Calvin Kolzow will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Trinity Lutheran Church or School.
Please keep us all in your prayers as we walk through this journey without him.
We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
