Edwin Christian Hostetter, of Palmyra, passed away Friday, November 12, 2021, at the age of 97.

Born in Annville on August 16, 1924, he was the son of the late Arthur S. and Gertrude (Light) Hostetter. He was the widower of Lucille F. (Gingrich) Hostetter since January 2018 and also preceded in death by his daughter Barbara Ann Hostetter Mishriki in January 1989, five sisters, Dorothy Willis, Kathryn Shoop, Ruth Hoffman, Martha Sholly, Pearl Hostetter and a brother Arthur L. Hostetter.

Surviving are his son Edwin C. Hostetter II, husband of Jean M. Hostetter of Robesonia; sister Janice, widow of Lloyd Kreider; grandchildren Kate A. Mishriki, wife of Brandon Baglivo and Hannah E. Mishriki wife of Kyle McGraw, Bradley R. Lintner, Christopher R. Lintner, Gregory W. Frimd: a great grandson and a great granddaughter.

Edwin graduated from Lebanon Senior High School Class of 1942 and enlisted in the United States Air Force in October 1942. After Basic Training and attending and graduating from Emery Riddle School of Aviation in Florida and Georgia, he spent the next 24 months in England repairing B-24 Bombers. He was transferred back to Pennsylvania July 1945 and discharged in October.

Edwin and Lucille were married on September 9, 1945 and moved to Philadelphia for Edwin to attend Pierce School of Business (now Pierce College) graduating in May 1948. He worked for New Holland Machine Company as a Cost Accountant for a year followed by six years for San Giorgio Macaroni Company as Office Manager and Controller. In July 1955 he purchased The Keeney Men’s Store, and later purchased the Shoe Store and moved into a new building at 33 East Main Street, Palmyra. Hostetter’s added a complete Ladies and Juniors Clothing Department. Edwin and his wife Lucille along with many excellent employees operated the business until January 1989 when they sold the building, as they planned to retire. In addition he owned four other clothing stores in Lebanon, Hummelstown, Harrisburg, and Camp Hill.

Edwin was involved in numerous other businesses in the local area. He was instrumental in the development of downtown Palmyra including the Palmyra square. Retirement included being elected for two terms on the Palmyra Area School Board and elected to the Jonestown Bank and Trust Board of Directors for 24 years. He also served as a North Londonderry Township Supervisor in the early 1970’s. He was a member of Palmyra First United Methodist Church, Palmyra American Legion, Citizens Fire Company, served for 35 years as a member of the Palmyra Lions Club and a life Member of Lebanon B.P.O. Elks #63l.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 19, 2021 at his church, 520 East Birch Street, Palmyra preceded by a visitation beginning at 10:30 a.m. Interment will be in Gravel Hill Cemetery, Palmyra. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to a favorite charity of the donor’s choice.