Reed Hostetler, a dedicated dairy farmer at Lowe & Young Inc. and a beloved resident of Wayne County, Ohio, tragically passed away on March 5, 2025, following a fatal farming accident.
Despite the swift response of emergency personnel, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
His sudden passing has left his family, friends, and the entire community in mourning.
Following the heartbreaking news, tributes and condolences began pouring in from those who knew and loved him.
The Facebook page of Lowe & Young Inc., where Reed was employed, shared a heartfelt tribute:
Another individual wrote:
There are no words to fully express the heartbreak of this situation. I can’t imagine what they are going through. I have known the Kauffman family for years, and through my time in Smithville, I’ve come to see how incredible the Baer and Hostetler families are as well. If you are able to give, please do so—every bit of support matters to this young family.
Via Facebook
In response to Reed’s tragic passing, Luke Truman organized a fundraiser to support his family with funeral expenses and financial assistance during this difficult time.
Thanks to the community’s generosity, the original $10K goal has already been surpassed.
Born and raised in Wayne County, Reed developed a deep passion for farming from an early age. Growing up on his family’s dairy farm, he learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and dedication to the land.
Over the years, Reed built a thriving farming operation, honouring his family’s legacy while incorporating modern agricultural practices to improve efficiency and sustainability.
His love for farming was evident in everything he did—from early mornings in the barn to late nights tending livestock and crops.
Beyond farming, Reed was a pillar of the community. He was actively involved in the Wayne County Farm Bureau and served as a mentor to many young farmers looking to establish themselves in the industry.