Geraldine Ann "Jerry" (Haines) Hostetler

Geraldine Ann Hostetler, 86, passed away after a brief battle with lung cancer Nov. 15 at the Center for Hospice Care with her daughter and son-in-law at her side. COVID-19 restrictions prevented the rest of her family from being there, but Jerry knew how deeply she was loved.

Born in Adrian, Mich., on July 13, 1934 to Hobart and Eva Haines, Jerry was born into the midst of the Great Depression and grew up on her parents’ farm during World War II. She knew that rubber for bicycle tires was rare and chipped beef gravy was a delicacy – and she’d make it for family for decades to come.

She attended a one-room schoolhouse before graduating from Onsted High School in 1952. She was just 19 years old when she married Ned Hostetler. Their courtship was brief but blossomed a marriage that lasted nearly 60 years.

Jerry and Ned had an enviable love and life together. They shared so many interests – including golf, crafting, euchre and travel, keeping close friends all over the country.

She’s survived by her daughter Laurie (Dan) Herron, and three beloved granddaughters: Marisa (Josh) Seitner, Arika Herron and Jordan Hostetler. Some of her very best days were spent with her older sister, Virginia Stites.

Jerry was preceded in death by her brother, Donald; husband, Ned; and son Jeffrey.

Later in life, Jerry and Ned found a second home and extended family in Creekside Church of the Brethren. Jerry took great pride in her role as a deacon.

A drive-up service will be held at Creekside, 60455 CR 113 in Elkhart, on Saturday, Nov. 21 at 1:30 p.m. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early if you’d like to drive by and offer a message to the family. Attendees can listen to the service from their vehicles in Creekside’s parking lot on 106.7 FM.

In lieu of flowers, Jerry asked that donations go to Creekside.

The family thanks all of her doctors and caregivers at Elkhart Clinic, Elkhart General and the Center for Hospice Care.

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