The memorial ceremony commemorating Phil Hochstetler’s passing in 1994. Capt. Aaron Rovenstine is at the podium. Hochstetler’s three sons and their families are seated in front, as officers, deputies and local workers and officials stand behind them.
June 29 will be the 20 year anniversary of the untimely passing of Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department Detective Phillip Hochstetler. In memory of this, members of the KCSD, local officials and Hochstetler’s surviving family gathered if front of the sheriff’s department for a memorial service.
Captain Aaron Rovenstine presided over the ceremony. Pastor John B. Lowe said a prayer and a few words.
“His service would make the world a safer place,” said Lowe. “Remember the price he’s paid.”
Then Rovenstine opened up the podium to anyone who might want to reflect on their time with Hochstetler. “It’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years,” said Joe Mooney.
Charlene Johnson recalled the first time he met Hochstetler. He was undercover and dressed as if he’d just been released from the Kosciusko County Jail. Johnson said they both had twins and bonded over that.
“He was a nice guy, really devoted to his family,” said Sergeant Chad Hill. “He was such a quiet person. He responded to a lot of calls in stealth mode.”
“He was known as the dude to us,” said former sheriff Ron Robinson. “He did a lot of good for this community.”
Hochstetler’s three sons, Douglas, David and Todd, were in attendance. They each took a moment to say a few words.
“It’s been 20 years, but you never forget,” said David, who is currently pursuing a career in law enforcement. “I hope I can live up to what my dad did.”
“It’s been hard,” said Douglas, fighting back tears. “I know my dad was a good father, and I want to be that for my kids.” Todd, clad in his dress blues, thanked all the officers and deputies for their service.
Sheriff Rocky Goshert had the last word before the ceremony ended, saying, “The huge sacrifice he made for the sheriff’s department could never be repaid.”
Hochstetler was killed in the line of duty while investigating a burglary. The suspect fired on Hochstetler, hitting him in the throat and head. The gunman then killed his two small children and fled the scene.
Two days later, the suspect was recognized by an officer as he drove past the crime scene. Officers chased the suspect, and a fire fight broke out in downtown Warsaw. During the shootout a Warsaw police officer shot and killed the suspect.
Hochstetler served the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department as an undercover officer and detective for four years before his death. He spent two years with the Nappanee Police Department before that.