Dr. Donald Williamson “Doc” Hostettler, VMD, age 81, formerly of Edinboro and Cambridge Springs, died peacefully on Friday, February 12, 2010 after a brief illness. His death took place at the Sarah Reed Retirement Center in Erie with his wife holding his hand and his loving family at his side. Both he and his wife, the former Kaliope “Kay” Economos, were residents at the Center.
Born and raised in Edinboro, PA, Doc was a son of the late C. Boyd Hostettler and Alice Stevenson Hostettler. He graduated from Edinboro High School in 1947 and from Edinboro Teaching College in 1951. For the next two years he served in the US Army Artillery during the Korean War being honorably discharged in 1953. Following his military service he attended the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania graduating in 1958 summa cum laude and obtaining a doctorate degree in Veterinary Medicine. For the next 50 years, Doc served farmers in Erie and Crawford Counties where he established many friendships. Farmers near and far placed their trust in him and knew that he would always answer their call for help when an animal was in need. During many of those years he provided volunteer services to animal rescue organizations. He also was a friend to many young 4-H members, teaching them and encouraging them in animal husbandry.
Doc was a member of American Legion Post #945, the Meadville Elks Club and the Meadville Moose. He enjoyed gardening and was an avid bowler and member of the American Bowling Congress. Doc played football in high school and as a spectator, enjoyed all college and professional sports. Doc particularly enjoyed dancing with his wife and spending time with his family. Most importantly, Doc was known to be a generous and gentle man who had a special love for his family and friends. This same love will continue to live on in everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Preceding in death in addition to his father and mother were two brothers – James Hostettler and Harold Hostettler, a sister – Lois Stahl and a granddaughter – Katrina Alloco. Family members include his beloved wife of 41 years – Kaliope “Kay” Hostettler; five daughters – Mary Ann Alloco of Palmyra, NY; Irene Dorosch and her husband – Larry of Erie; Carole Galletta and her husband, Dennis of Allison Park, PA; Kristan Tabaka and her husband, Jack of Pittsburgh; and Stephanie Carideo and her husband, Phillip of Erie; and his dear sister – Margaret “Sis” Cribbs of Pueblo, CO. In addition, he was the proud “Poppy” of six grandchildren – Rick Alloco, Brian Dorosch, Tiffany Hostettler, Christy and Lauren Galletta, and Brianne Carideo; four great grandchildren – Allison, Matthew, and Sarah Dorosch, and Grace Horner.
Memorial visitation to celebrate Doc’s life will be held at the Van Matre Funeral Home, 306 Erie Street, Edinboro on Friday, February 19th from 2:00 – 4:00 and 7:00 – 9:00 when the family will be present to receive remembrances and condolences. Memorial services will be held at the Funeral Home Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. with Reverend Thomas Shelow, pastor of McLane Church of Edinboro, officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Therapeutic Riding Equestrian Center (TREC), 8342 Platz Road, Fairview, PA 16415 or Orphan Angels Cat Sanctuary and Adoption Center, 2212 West 8th St., Erie, PA 16505.
We are very sorry and saddened to hear of the loss of your Father and Husband. It is always tough to lose a loved one, but hopfully your faith will provide you with the strength you need andthe knowledge that he is at peace with his Maker. He was a very special man and I know the whole family will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in your time of grief. With sympathy, Lynn and Al Powdrell, neighbors of Carole and Dennis.