George M. Hochstetler, 84, formerly of Nappanee, died at 4 am, Thursday, May 12, 2016, at Rosebud Village Nursing Home in Richmond. 

He had moved to Richmond in February 2015. 

George was born Aug. 2, 1931 in Nappanee to Melvin and Verda Hochstetler. He lived his lifetime in Nappanee. He was married to Mary Lou Reprogle and she preceded him in death March 23, 2007.

Mr. Hochstetler was a recreational farmer and raised chickens. He also had owned Pet Junction in Nappanee and bred and sold exotic fish. George raised ponies and was active at the Nappanee Raceway. He loved gardening and the outdoors and enjoyed fishing and hunting.

Mr. Hochstetler is survived by his daughters: G. Lynn (Larry) Knight, Richmond; Jeanie Hochstetler, Dunlap; Christine Snyder, Nappanee; sons: Jerry Hochstetler, Syracuse; Melvin (Cheryl) Hochstetler, Bremen; stepchildren: Perry (Sally) Tyler, Noblesville; Kathy (Steve) Pippenger, Leesburg; 18 grandchildren; and several great grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by a son: Randy Hochstetler and brothers and sisters.

Mr. Hochstetler will be cremated and a memorial service will take place in Nappanee at a later date.

Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home in Nappanee.