Reed Hostetler

Stefan Reed Hostetler
God made a good one when He made our Reed. And because of God's grace, we all get to love him.
Reed was born on November 23, 1993 as the loudest and worst baby to Robyn Baer Hostetler and Stefan Hostetler. They, along with the best grandparents, Larry & Roberta Baer and Clair & Esther Hostetler, taught Reed to love Jesus. He grew up getting into all sorts of trouble with his siblings (turned best friends) Wren, Aidan, Lee, Dani, and Lindsey. Reed and his stepdad Eggy, caused their own mischief. However, Reed could charm his way out of any trouble when he flashed his big smile and displayed his ability to make anyone laugh.
Reed played football and wrestled at Smithville High School. He graduated from the Ag Mechanics program at the Career Center in 2012. He also completed his associate's degree in Dairy Management from OSU ATI in 2014. To all of his coaches and teachers: we thank you for putting up with him.
Reed grew up to develop the most amazing work ethic and adventurous spirit. His adventures led him to a bull riding career, hiking the full Appalachian Trail, spending several months on mission work in Thailand, and building a beautiful cabin. He loved boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, camping, snow skiing, hockey, riding his four-wheeler, fishing, and hunting. But mostly, he loved being in God's creation and learning more about the world.
Reed was a co-owner of L&R Dairy Farm and worked tirelessly to enhance the legacy that was passed to him. He had the ability to fix nearly every piece of equipment (after doing it wrong twice) and had an incredibly sharp business mind. He made great relationships with people through his business. He shared this year he wanted to be more intentional about sharing Jesus with the people he worked with. You can feel him and see his fingerprints all over the farm and land.
Reed had the greatest friends because he was the greatest friend. He made such lasting stories and memories with so many people. Our family would love to hear those stories so please share your memories and photos and know they are appreciated.
The best role Reed played is a husband and father. He met Abby at a football game and their first date was riding in the tractor. They were married on the farm on July 14, 2018 and although she loved to annoy him, Abby will always and forever be smitten with him. He was the greatest dad to his "Buster" Baer (4), "Princess" Claire (2), and "Axey-boy" Axe (1). There aren't enough words to share how incredible of a dad Reed was, but everyone could see the love and true joy he had for his babies. His other love, Happy Dog, has always been Reed's companion and his shadow.
We know without a doubt Reed is in the presence of Jesus. We know this because God sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross to take the penalty for our sinful nature. But Jesus overcame death. Because Reed believed in who Jesus is, what He has done, and Reed asked God to forgive him and be the leader of his life, we are confident Reed is spending eternity praising God.
And even though our hearts hurt, we know God is still good.
Friends may call on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at L & R Dairy Farm, 12599 Fulton Road, Marshallville, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
Services will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday, at L & R Dairy Farm, with Pastor Ryan Klotzle officiating.
Outdoor clothing appropriate for the weather is recommended.