Gary E. Hostetler, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on May 18, 2026, at the age of 75.

Born on August 2, 1950, in Somerset, PA, he then moved into the Kennett Square area at the age of 5. During his school years in Kennett Square, he participated in basketball, soccer and baseball.  Gary served his country as part of the US Army in the 18th Military Police Brigade-E4, including one tour in Vietnam.  He received the Army Commendation Medal for distinguishing himself by exceptionally meritorious service.  His unrelenting loyalty, initiative and perseverance brought him wide acclaim and inspired others to strive for maximum achievement.  After his service, Gary dedicated himself to family.  He was a doting and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, favorite uncle and friend.

Gary had a brilliant, mathematical mind and was an extremely hard worker.  He and Debbie owned D&G Mushrooms with his nephew, Nick Perigo, before he moved on to a lifelong career in logistics.  In his off hours, Gary was diligent in his yardwork and was known for watching criminal/mystery shows and being a very avid reader.  He was a Steelers and Eagles “Steagles” fan but when it came down to it, the Eagles were his favorite.  His competitive nature was revealed when he played darts at the V.F.W., Texas Hold ‘em, Men’s League Softball or even horseshoes at the family reunions.  He had a distinctive laughter that would fill the room.  He was never short on conversation or stories and had the willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need.  He was affectionately known to his nieces and nephews as “Gary The Great” with a behind the scenes joke of BSer added to the end.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Grace and Kenneth Hostetler and brother, Paul Bateman.   

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Debbie; his daughter, Lisa; and his grandson, Milo; siblings, Helen Perigo (the late Dominic), Donald Hostetler (the late Lois), Carole Black (the late Ronald), Janice Madonna (the late Daniel), Lorraine Skelton (the late Richard “Glen”) and Ricky Hostetler (Jaye Ann).  Also survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Visitation with the family will be from 10:00AM until 11:00AM on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at the LONGWOOD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION of MATTHEW GENEREUX, 913 East Baltimore Pike, Kennett Square.  Inurnment and U.S. Army military honors will follow in St. Patrick Cemetery, Kennett Square.

In lieu of flowers, plants or other tokens, due to health concerns, the family requests donations in honor of Milo Gephart to the Eagle’s Autism Foundation in Gary’s memory.  DONATE