Donald Lynn Hostetler, father of eight children, passionate woodworker, passed away unexpectedly while visiting family on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024, in Charleston, South Carolina.
He was born June 18, 1955, in Iowa City, to Leslie and Emma (Helmuth) Hostetler. On June 19, 1976, in Wellman, he married Cynthia Miller.
Don graduated from Iowa State with a bachelor’s degree in engineering in 1995. He worked as a product specialist at Brock Grain Systems and prior to that, he was an engineer at Wieland Designs. Don’s expertise and dedication in his field were widely recognized, and he made significant contributions to both companies.
Don enjoyed woodworking, a passion he inherited from his father, and was a member of the local woodworkers guild. He specialized in building furniture, and over the years built many pieces for his children and family. His woodworking creations, cherished by his family, are a testament to his skill and passion.
He was a board member and former president of the Cross Court Boys Basketball association. Even after his time on the board, Don frequently went to Friday night CCBB games to volunteer in any way he could. Prior to his time with CCBB, Don was a basketball referee for 15 years for local area high schools, often teaming up with his first cousin Merle Hostetler who was also a referee. Don’s love and commitment to his community and basketball was evident through his active participation in CCBB, his years as a high school basketball referee, and his love of Iowa State basketball.
Survivors include his eight children: Christa (Irvin) Smith of Goshen, Indiana, Claris (Colin) Schmidt of Moncks Corner, South Carolina, Dustin (Vangie) Hostetler of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Drew Hostetler of Goshen, Dylan (Emily) Hostetler of Grand Haven, Michigan, Derick (Erica) Hostetler of Columbia City, Indiana, Drake Hostetler of Goshen, and Davis (Alexus) Hostetler of Goshen; 15 grandchildren: Aiden, Evan, and Jaxon Smith; Gabriel (Abigail), Caleb (Ashley), Noah, and Micah Schmidt; Ethan and Briar Hostetler; Claire and Will Hostetler; Adelaide, Simon, and expected baby boy Hostetler; Graisyn Hostetler; and one great-grandchild: Emmett Schmidt; the mother of his children: Cynthia Hostetler of Goshen; four siblings: Carolyn (Perry) Miller of Kalona, Judy (Brent) Balbinot of Holland, Ohio, Dale (Faith) Hostetler of Johns Island, South Carolina, and Larion (Ruby) Hostetler of Linville, Virginia; and one brother-in-law: Marcus Hostetler of Charleston, South Carolina.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister: Phylis (Marcus) Hostetler; a niece and a nephew.
A memorial service was held at Grace Community Church, Goshen, Monday, Sept. 30, 3024. Memorial contributions can be given to Cross Court Boys Basketball Association or to the family to assist with funeral expenses.
Don will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The family invites friends and loved ones to share their memories and condolences online at millerstewartfuneralhome.com.
