Dennis W. Hostetler, 68, of Collinsville, Illinois passed away peacefully on December 31, 2010 of mesothelioma, a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.  He is survived by his life partner of 26 years, Charles Koehler, his sisters Gayle Henderson and Janice Hostetler, daughters Tesia Hostetler and Jocelyn Hostetler, sons Connor and Spencer Anderson-Procter, son-in-law Reuven Samuel, grandson Hunter Samuel, and an extended network of family and friends. 

Dennis was a university professor in Public Administration for thirty-one years at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.  He published articles on public finance, teaching and LGBT issues and also served as a consultant for state and local government agencies.  He was actively involved in the LGBT community, serving on the boards of P-FLAG, SAGE Metro St. Louis and Prime Timers St. Louis.

Dennis was an avid world traveler (inspired from his years of service in the Peace Corps), competitive tennis player, bicycle enthusiast, gay square dancer (Gateway Squares) and enjoyed playing a good round of bridge with friends.  He relished intense discussions (usually about politics and life) and cherished his family and friends.

A “Celebration of Life” memorial service will be held for Dennis on Saturday afternoon, January 22.  The family would welcome your short written personal rememberance or story (approx. one page) about Dennis to add to his written memoirs.  For memorial service time and location and/or to send your story about Dennis, please e-mail celebrationofdennis@yahoo.com.

In lieu of cards, food or flowers, donations may be made in his name to SAGE Metro St. Louis, 2710 South Grand Avenue, suite 109, St. Louis, MO 63118 (or go to http://sagemetrostl.org/Donations.aspx ).