Hostetlers Honored with Healthy Habits Champion Award

Wendell and Phyllis Hostetler have been going for walks every evening for 50 some years, usually around their neighborhood and all four seasons of the year. They may not appear to be fitness gurus, yet they clearly exemplify a healthy lifestyle, one that can easily be obtained by nearly anyone. Their personal devotion to health and wellness is on display 365 days a year.

"We started going for walks when the kids were little, just so we could have some quiet time together," said Phyllis. "We used to walk three miles, then we shortened it to two, and now we just do one mile," added Wendell. He's 93 now and she recently turned 89. Just think! This is true dedication to a healthy habit. They began when they were in their 40's!

But there’s more to this story. Wendell was a construction manager /draftsman who gave countless hours to the YMCA when the facility was built in the early 1990’s. His leadership and sound, experienced advice had a positive impact on a building that continues to serve our community with pride. Wendell understood that he was enhancing the quality of life for people of all ages with no expectations of rewards for himself. He was focused on a providing a space that could offer a rewarding experience for the people in our community. After 26 years we can clearly see that his efforts have indeed provided an exceptional space for people to pursue and achieve physical, mental and social wellbeing.

“Wendell and Phyllis Hostetler are shining examples of the value of staying mentally and physically active for a lifetime,” said Bob Witmer, Orrville Y director for 28 years. “Phyllis was a kind and energetic presence at Oak Elementary where she served as the school secretary for many years. Wendell could be considered Orrville’s renaissance man because of his many skills and interests. Wendell’s skill as a construction manager/draftsman allowed me to spend quality time with him. The YMCA facility committee in the early 1990’s learned of his success with designing the performing arts addition at Central Christian Schools as well as other local buildings. We were pleased he was willing to review initial plans from a Canton architect and work with the committee to make cosmetic and functional changes to fit the construction budget. His experience and many ideas have made a permanent mark in the design and appearance of the Y. He especially helped to provide cost-effective aesthetics with brick accents, circle windows, elevated spaces, and good floor plan suggestions.” Wendell’s impact on the Y can’t be measured, but he has certainly had a strong, positive influence on everyone who enters the building.

The Hostetlers continue to be committed to regular exercise with their daily walks and even walk indoors at Orrville Middle School when the weather is inclement. It’s always a distinct pleasure for my wife and I to walk with them indoors when our schedules meet,” said Witmer.

The Dr. Andrew Naumoff Healthy Habits Champion Award is sponsored by the Aultman Orrville Hospital Growing Healthy Habits Coalition to acknowledge and recognize the important contributions of a community member towards healthy living, healthy choices and living with good habits personally and publicly. The award is $250 donation to a not-for-profit organization or charity of the recipient’s choosing. The award will be presented at Orrville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Celebration of Community June 21. Tickets can be purchased at www.orrvillechamber.com

Congratulations to the Hostetlers on receiving the 2022 Healthy Habits Champion Award. You are role models for us all!