Gerald Hosterman Smith

Surrounded by his loving family, Gerald Hosterman Smith, formerly of Aaronsburg, passed away at The Oaks in Pleasant Gap on Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025.

He was born in Aaronsburg on July 9, 1928, to the late Charles A. and Lena K. (Hosterman) Smith. He graduated from the former East Penns Valley High School and the Mercersburg Academy. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering from Pennsylvania State University, and later earned a Master’s Degree in Administration from George Washington University.

Gerald proudly served our country for 22 years in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His Air Force career culminated with service in the organizations of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the National Security Agency. Following his military career, he was vice president of a defense contracting firm in northern Virginia. He fully retired in 1985 and returned to his hometown of Aaronsburg.

Gerald proudly served his community in many ways and was on the board of directors for many groups including the Aaronsburg Civic Club, the Aaronsburg Historical Museum Association, the Aaronsburg Water Authority and the Millheim Lions Club. He was a member of the Haines Township Planning Commission, American Legion Post 444, and Salem Lutheran Church in Aaronsburg. Gerald was a 75-year member of Old Fort Masonic Lodge #537 and served as Worshipful Master in 1989 and 1991. Gerald loved his native Penns Valley (God’s country) and had a passion for hunting, fishing, riding ATVs and simply spending time on his mountain land in Pine Creek Hollow at “Froh Deich Laager” — his Happy Hollow Camp. He loved sharing this beautiful place with his family.

Gerald is survived by his daughter, Melanie Butler (Larry), of Herndon, Va.; his son, Michael Smith (Madonna), of Corvallis, Ore.; and five grandchildren, Drew Smith Butler, Maddie Smith, Devin Smith (Hannah), Erin Smith and Gavin Smith. He was preceded in death by his brother, Charles Smith and by the mother of his children, Marlene Lutz.

A Celebration of Life service in honor of Gerald will be held at The Oaks in Pleasant Gap on Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. with Pastor Elisa Osman officiating. Gerald will be laid to rest with military honors in Fairview Cemetery in Millheim during a private graveside service. Contributions in his memory, in appreciation for the exceptional loving care he received, may be given The Oaks at Pleasant Gap, 200 Rachel Drive, Pleasant Gap, PA 16823.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.stevenrnefffuneralhome.com.