Corey Mitchell Hostetter

Corey Mitchell Hostetter, age 33, of Elizabethtown, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital.

Born on Saturday, January 25, 1992, Corey was the beloved son of Gary Scott Hostetter and Amy Lain (Kauffman) Bair.

Corey grew up in the Donegal School District, where he actively participated in sports including soccer, baseball, football, and martial arts. Outside of school, he was always in motion—fishing, hunting, riding dirt bikes or four-wheelers—anything with at least two wheels and an engine. He loved the thrill of speed, but always took the time to slow down and be present for the people he cared about.

He was a passionate musician who began taking drum lessons at a young age and later played in a band, performing live at venues like the Chameleon Club and the Columbia Veterans Memorial Tribute. He also won first place in the Donegal High School Talent Show, a testament to his talent and stage presence.

Corey’s adventurous spirit extended to memorable hunting trips to Canada with his father and grandfather, and fishing outings with close friends, including catching massive catfish with his friend, Hunter. These moments were filled with laughter, storytelling, and a deep connection to the outdoors that Corey cherished.

Though he loved a good adventure, family was always at the center of Corey’s life. He shared a close bond with his younger sister, Hope, who was often his shadow growing up. He made sure she always felt included and protected. He proudly spoke of his mother’s cooking and never missed an opportunity to sit down for a family dinner. Corey had a natural warmth that drew people in—he was kind-hearted, loyal, and genuinely loved by everyone who knew him.

Professionally, Corey worked in construction and took great pride in his craftsmanship. Much of his knowledge came from years spent working alongside his father, and his work reflected the skill, precision, and dedication he poured into every project.

Corey is survived by his father, Gary Scott Hostetter and wife Bobbi Jo of Mifflin; his mother, Amy Lain (Kauffman) Bair and husband Alan of Elizabethtown; and his sister, Hope Renee Hostetter of Elizabethtown. He is also survived by his maternal grandparents Deanna Pancake and husband John; aunt, Jamie Kauffman; uncles, Steven Kauffman, Denny Kauffman, David Kauffman and wife Donda, Scott Hostetter and wife Sherry, Daniel Hostetter, Troy Hostetter and wife Tonya, and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Larry E. and Thelma Mae (Eltz) Hostetter.

Corey leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, music, and memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, August 18th at 6 PM at Miller-Finkenbinder Funeral Home & Crematory, 130 North Market Street, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Family and friends are invited for visitation from 5 PM until time of the service at the funeral home. Private burial will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his honor to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, PO Box 49104, Baltimore, MD 21297 or www.nami.org