Marylou Hostetler

Mary Louise “Marylou” Fritz Hostetler, 89, passed away on July 31, 2017 following an extended illness. She was born in Navarre on October 9, 1927 to the late Otto F. and Vera (Machan) Fritz and was a graduate of Washington High School. Marylou married her high school sweetheart, Richard “Dick” Hostetler September 8, 1950 and celebrated 50 years together before his death in February of 2000. Shortly after they married, Dick was assigned to Indonesia as the Financial Director for Goodyear of the Far East which then led to later assignments in India, Germany, and eventually South Africa. While living in Germany, she became an accomplished horse rider, as there was no golf course nearby (her other love). An avid animal lover, she adored her Arabian and Lipizzaner Stallions. While living in South Africa, Marylou was instrumental in starting the Elukholweni Primary School for the children of the local farmers. She worked fervently to turn the ordinary farm school into a modern, model school. She was very active in the community. Upon retirement, Marylou and Dick returned stateside and resided in Whispering Pines, NC. She was involved in the local garden club and volunteered at the Thrift Store among her many other community projects. She was a member of Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church in Southern Pines, NC. Her home was always open to both family and friends who visited often. The table in the Carolina Room was always set for whoever may just happen by. She was the most gracious of hostesses and consistently put the welfare of others before herself. Marylou often told stories of the many places she’d lived and the wonderful friends she had made. She always said “Don’t be sad when I pass, I’ve lived a full life and experienced so many wonderful places that most people will never have the opportunity to see”. Surviving are her brother William “ Bill” Fritz of Massillon, sister- in- laws Mrs. Dorothy (Donald) Fritz of Navarre, Gerri (Robert) Fritz of Massillon, nieces and caregivers Keelie Fritz Mann of North Lawrence, Julie Fritz Stelzle of Mason, Ohio, and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, and brothers Eugene “Jim”, Robert, and Donald Fritz. Special thanks go to her dearest friend, Nancy O’Connell of Whispering Pines, NC, who was a loving caregiver prior to Marylou moving back to Massillon in 2013. A private graveside service will be held at Massillon Cemetery. Messages of condolence may be left at www.arnoldlynch.com Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Home 330-833-4839