HOSTETLER, JOSEPH C. (8 Aug. 1885-2 Dec. 1958), a founding partner of the law firm of Baker, Hostetler & Sidlo (see BAKER & HOSTETLER), was born near Canal Dover, Tuscarawas County, Ohio to Joseph and Caroline Hostetler, members of the Amish community. After high school graduation, Hostetler worked various jobs, including as a police beat reporter in Cleveland, to earn his tuition for Western Reserve University (see CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY) and law school. After he was admitted to the Ohio bar in 1908, Hostetler worked for 2 years in the law firm of WM. R. HOPKINS. While NEWTON D. BAKER was Cleveland mayor (1912-16), Hostetler served as his assistant city law director. When Baker left office, Hostetler joined him in the new firm of Baker, Hostetler & Sidlo, practicing law until his death.
Hostetler was an organizer of the NORTHERN OHIO FOOD TERMINAL and chairman of its board of directors. He became director of Cleveland Trust Co. in 1938, succeeding Baker. He was also a director of Cleveland Welding Co. and Consolidated Iron-Steel Mfg. Co. He headed the Chamber of Commerce-sponsored Playgoers of Cleveland, an organization seeking to establish a legitimate theater season in Cleveland, presenting some New York's best plays. He was awarded an honorary Master of Law degree by CLEVELAND-MARSHALL LAW SCHOOL in 1948, was elected president of the CLEVELAND BAR ASSOC. in 1947, was secretary of the Cleveland Baseball Co. for 20 years, and was counsel for the American League. Hostetler married Hazel Prior in 1917; they had no children.