Olen "James" Hochstetler

Olen “James” Hochstetler, age 83, of Topeka, IN passed away on December 25, 2022 at Orchard Pointe Health Campus in Kendallville, IN following a seven year battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was born January 15, 1939, the son of Omer J. & Elizabeth R. (Ringler) Hochstetler in Honeyville, IN. He married Barbara Ellen Feightner on September 21, 1957.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Barbara Hochstetler of Topeka, IN; three children, Jim (Tammy) Hochstetler of Topeka, IN, Jody (Mike) Myers of Wolcottville, IN, and Jana (Phil) Taylor of Bucyrus, OH; four grandchildren, JD (Sherry) Hochstetler, Jennifer (Mike) Frey, Brad (Jessica) Hochstetler, and Mandy (Tim) Tomecko; seven great-grandchildren, Regan, Stella, Sterling, Kyle, Karson, Ava, Brantley, & Halle.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Calvin Hochstetler and Bill Hochstetler.

James graduated from Topeka High School in 1957. Along with farming, he co-owned and operated Hochstetler and Sons and was the owner of Topeka Seed and Stove for many years. He was also a member of Topeka Mennonite Church for several decades and an avid IU Basketball and Indianapolis Colts fan. James had a great sense of humor and loved telling jokes. He always wanted to win the lottery so he could buy every FFA member a jacket. James especially enjoyed his grandchildren and his grandog, Trooper .

A funeral service will be held in James honor at 1 pm on Friday, December 30, 2022 at Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway South; Ligonier, IN 46767. Pastor Harold Gingerich will officiate. A private family burial will take place following the service at Eden Cemetery in Topeka.

Family and friends will be received from 11am - 1 pm on Friday prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Westview FFA, ℅ Westview High School, 1635 S 600 W, Topeka, IN 46571 or LaGrange County 4-H, 114 W Michigan Street, Site 10 LaGrange, IN 46761.