Sergeant First Class Keith Justice Hostetler

Sergeant First Class Keith Hostetler, a proud and dedicated soldier, beloved son, brother, father, and friend passed away unexpectedly on November 4, 2024, at the age of 40. After many years of enduring multiple medical tramas, his body finally succumbed Monday morning, peacefully in his sleep. Keith was born Keith Justice Kirmer on March 19, 1984, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to Scott Michael Kirmer and Alrena Ann Kirmer. After Scott’s passing, and Alrena’s remarriage, he was adopted by John Hostetler and changed his name to Keith Justice Hostetler.

Keith enlisted in the United States Army shortly after graduating from high school, driven by a deep sense of duty to protect and serve his country. Keith’s military career was his proudest achievement. Over the course of his distinguished 22-year military career, he achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class, earning numerous awards and commendations for his leadership, bravery, and commitment to his fellow soldiers.

Keith’s military awards included: two army commendation medals, five medals for conduct, Army Reserve Component Achievement medal, National Defense Service medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal and Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and an Army Achievement medal. Keith's service took him to locations around the world, where he was known for his unwavering work ethic, his calm under pressure, and his ability to inspire those around him. Keith was the true embodiment of the value of service before self, and he made an indelible impact on his unit and colleagues. His sacrifices and dedication to his country will be remembered with great respect and admiration.

Keith’s commitment to service was matched only by his love of his family. His daughter, Hailey Elizabeth Hostetler was born on August 14, 2007 and she was the apple of his eye! He married Tiffany Fuentes on January 29th, 2010 and with her two children, Christian and Kylee, they became a family of 5 who traveled all around the country following Keith’s military orders. In 2020, Keith and Tiffany divorced, and Keith was stationed back in Grapevine Texas, and was delighted to be back near his family.

He was also extremely proud that he fulfilled his commitment to complete his higher education by earning his Bachelor’s degree, after many years of effort. On February 8th, 2024, at the age of 40, he officially earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Multidisciplinary Studies, from the University of Arkansas Grantham, and graduated Cum Laude. He had aspirations of using this degree to pursue a career in Human Resources after retiring from the U.S Military in 2024.

Keith is preceded in death by, Scott Michael Kirmer. He is survived by his daughter, Hailey Hostetler, his parents, John and Alrena (Renny) Hostetler; his brothers, Holden Hostetler, Jordan Hostetler (Kalah), his sister Nichole Pace (Shane); and his extended family and many friends who will forever miss his smile and his contagious laugh and sense of humor.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 16th at Bluebonnet Hill funeral home and memorial park in Colleyville, Texas, where family and friends will gather to celebrate his life and how much we all loved him.

Keith is finally at peace. You will be forever loved and missed.