WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Ora Hostetler, 88, of White Pigeon, died Monday, March 11, 2013, at his home of natural causes.
He was born Nov. 15, 1924, in Elkhart County, Ind., a son of Samuel and Barbara (Chupp) Hostetler.
He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving in Europe in World War II Decorations, included three Overseas Service Bars, Eastern Theater Ribbon with one silver and two bronze stars, Good Conduct Medal and a World War II Victory Medal.
On Jan. 24, 1946, he married Marian R. Fleck in Constantine. She died April 4, 2010.
He was employed by New York Central Railroad, White Pigeon Paper Mill, the Village of White Pigeon, and Abitibi Price for 23 years. He retired in 1990 as owner and operator of Hostetler’s Lawn Mower Repair Shop.
He was a member of Swartz-VanFleet Post #138 American Legion in White Pigeon, National Rifle Association and enjoyed traveling with his wife, collecting guns and model trains.
Surviving are a daughter, Gloria (Larry) Waltke, and a son, Melvin (Dorothy) Hostetler, all of White Pigeon; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; a sister; and two brothers.
Relatives and friends may call from 5-8 p.m. Thursday and 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday at Farrand Funeral Home in White Pigeon, where services are at 1 p.m. Friday. Pastor Barry Edds of White Pigeon Church of Christ will officiate. Interment will be in White Pigeon Township Cemetery with military rites.
Memorials may be directed to Disabled American Veterans.
