Karson Hochstetler

SHIPSHEWANA - Karson Wyatt Hochstetler, 13, of Shipshewana, Indiana, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, as the result of a UTV and automobile accident on S.R. 120.

He was born on June 20, 2012, in Topeka, Indiana, to Brad W. and Jessica E. (Bergstedt) Hochstetler.

Karson was a bright, curious, and adventurous young boy whose energy and love for the outdoors brought joy to all who knew him. He especially loved fishing and even made his own lures, proudly showing off his creations to family and friends. Whether kayaking, riding dirt bikes and ATVs, target practicing, or building things with his hands, Karson thrived when he was outside. He also cherished evenings around a campfire, sharing laughter and making memories with his family.

Karson is survived by his parents, Brad W. and Jessica E. Hochstetler, of Shipshewana; his brother, Kyle Hochstetler, of Shipshewana; maternal grandparents, Jim and Pam Bergstedt, of Shipshewana; paternal grandparents, Mike and Jody Myers, of Wolcottville; maternal great-grandfather, Roger Balyeat, of Shipshewana; paternal great-grandmother, Barb Hochstetler, of Topeka; aunts and uncles, Melissa and Ronald Mishler, of LaGrange and Judith and Lance Miller, of Bristol; cousins, Wesley, Maxwell, Eric and David Mishler, of LaGrange; and his beloved therapy dog, Izzy, who was always by his side.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, William Pea; maternal great-grandmother, Julia Balyeat, maternal great-grandfather, Carl E. Bergstedt; and paternal great-grandfather, James Hochstetler.

Family and friends will gather to honor Karson's life during a visitation from 3-7 p.m., on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, at Shore Church, 7235 W. 100N, Shipshewana, Indiana.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, at the church, with viewing from 10 a.m., until the time of the service.

Pastors Nic Raber and Kevin Brower will be officiating.

Burial will follow at Lima Community Church Cemetery, Howe, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Karson's memory to Shore Kids Ministry, helping continue the spirit of joy and love that Karson shared or LaGrange County Parks c/o LaGrange County Connecting with Youth.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.fruripmayfuneralhome.com.?Arrangements are entrusted to Frurip-May Funeral Home, LaGrange, Indiana.