Karen D. Hostetler

Karen Deanne Hostetler was born on July 13, 1955 in Anthony, Kansas to Dewey and Bernice Hostetler and the family made their home in Harper, Kansas.  At the age of 70, Karen entered the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ, on January 19, 2026, following a courageous battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

A devoted follower of Christ, Karen lived with a 'spunky' spirit and a heart for service to others. An avid animal enthusiast, she spent countless hours volunteering at the Sedgwick County Zoo and animal shelters where she was happiest with 'something furry' in her hands. Beyond being a mother and grandmother, she had diverse careers, such as a hair stylist, pre-Kindergarten teacher, and a paraprofessional for high school special education students.

Karen is survived by her loving mother, Bernice Hostetler; her siblings, Lynn (and Lisa) Hostetler and Arlene Jantz (and Mike Kraus); her brother‑in‑law, Dennis Coates; and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her four children—Nicolas (and Kara) Moseley, Leia (and Nicolas) Girard, Abby (and Jason) Christenson, and Alex (and Allison) Moseley—and by her grandchildren: Ivan, Eva, Elise, Sophie, Isaiah, Olivia, Alexa, Avery, Amelia, and a soon‑to‑be‑born baby girl.

She was preceded in death by her father, Dewey Hostetler; her sister, Heidi Coates; and her brother, Scott Hostetler.

Karen possessed a talent for ventriloquism, performing as a clown, and an overarching, God-given gift to make children feel deeply loved and full of laughter. Her infectious smile and the legacy of love for her children and grandchildren will be cherished forever.

A celebration of Karen’s life was held on Monday, January 26, at Ridgepoint Church, Wichita, KS. Followed by a graveside service at the Pleasant Valley Mennonite Church Cemetery in Harper, KS. Brent Warkentin delivered the message for both services.