Bill Hostetler

1926 - 2016

Bill Hostetler died Friday, Dec. 9, 2016. Bill came into this world March 14, 1926, in Somerset. Those who knew and loved him would probably agree that date should have been declared a national holiday. Throughout his life, he was a beloved son to Harry and Blanche Hostetler and devoted brother to Bob, Toots and Vine. Bill always wondered how things worked and as a teenager, he dabbled in buying, repairing and selling just about any mode of transportation you could imagine. During his high school days in Latrobe, America entered World War II. Bill volunteered as an air raid warden and worked weekends at the Vulcan Mold Defense Plant. At 17, he joined the Navy and headed off to New Guinea, where he was assigned to a naval advanced base. His mechanical skills came into play as he repaired landing crafts. He spent 26 months there and then headed back to the United States to decommission the Battleship Tennessee before being honorably discharged in 1946. After the war, Bill met Helen Yourish and she became the love of his life. They were married in 1949 and had four children. Tom, Barbara, Patti and Marcia could not have asked for a more loving, wise and generous Dad. Bill's diesel mechanic career spanned four decades. He honed his craft and owned the Donegal Turnpike Service and Hostetler Towing Service. Later, he shared his expertise while mentoring others at Wilson Freight, Teledyne and M&G Convoy. He officially retired in 1982 but never stopped working. Bill was always rebuilding or tinkering with something mechanical. After Helen passed, Bill was constantly on the go, and December 9, he decided the 20 years, two months, two days and two hours apart had been long enough. He reached for Helen's hand as the song, "I'll Be Home for Christmas", played softly in the background. Barb, Marcia and son-in-law, Tom, were by his side as he peacefully slipped away. Everyone knew Bill and Helen were inseparable and can take comfort in knowing they are together smiling down on us. Please celebrate Bill's 90 glorious years here on Earth and honor his memory in your own special way. Always remember how he touched your life and made you a better person.
As per Bill's request, there was no visitation and burial was private. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the RHOME FUNERAL HOME INC., 1209 Grand Blvd., Monessen.