Jane Elaine Hostutler

Jane Elaine (Schaefer) Hostutler, age 77, of Saginaw, Michigan, passed away on June 5, 2026, at Harbour Hospice in Fruitport, Michigan, surrounded by her children following a long, courageous battle with dementia. 

Born the second of five children to the late Paul and Joyce (Kerns) Schaefer, Jane cherished her childhood on the family farm on Chippewa Road in Midland, Michigan. She loved reminiscing about playing in the old barn, swimming in the river, and fishing at the deep hole. It was during her school years at Bullock Creek that she met her high school sweetheart, Ben Swarthout. They married in 1966 and had three children— Ty, Angela, and Misty —before their marriage ended. 

Jane was defined by her incredible work ethic and nurturing spirit. She ran a daycare, cleaned homes, and sold AVON, eventually transitioning to the counseling and guidance department at Hemlock High School. She later accepted a position at the Saginaw Agriculture Stabilization Conservation Services (ASCS) office. It was there, while working with the disaster unit during a major Saginaw flood, that she met a lieutenant who would become the love of her life: James N. Hostutler. Her daughters still remember the day she brought Jim home to introduce him; to say they approved would be an understatement. Jim adored and spoiled Jane, giving her the beautiful life she truly deserved. They traveled the world and enjoyed life hand-in-hand until Jim’s passing on December 14, 2017. 

Following Jim's death, Jane continued to try to find joy in life. She spent winters in Lakeland, Florida, with her sister and brother-in-law, Paula and Mike Marker, sharing special times with them and her many Florida friends. In the summer of 2020, her best friend, Linda Helpap, introduced her to James Federico. Their connection flourished into a deeply loving friendship that lasted until his passing in January 2025. 

Jane was a woman of vibrant talents and passions. She loved decorating her home, refurbishing old furniture, journaling, weeding her flower gardens, and hunting for treasures at garage sales. A natural host, she loved playing Euchre and hosting happy hours featuring her famous cheese ball and garlic toast. 

Above all, Jane loved her family fiercely. She showed her love through actions—if you needed her, she was there. She was the first to arrive when loved ones were sick, sad, or in need, once even getting pulled over for speeding on her way to a daughter in labor, earning a police escort straight to the house. 

Jane is survived by her loving siblings: Linda (Dan) Felske, Paula (Mike) Marker, Randal (Pam) Schaefer, and James (Carol) Schaefer. She lives on through her children: Ty Swarthout, Angela (Kirk) Ritter, and Misty (Scott) Clark; her grandchildren: Haylee (Tony) Burkhart, Regan Swarthout, Ava Swarthout, Kagan (Samantha) Hopkins, Walker (Taylor) Hopkins, Tucker (Amber) Clark, Canon (Kaitlyn) Clark, and Brady Clark; as well as her great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. 

Jane’s final message to all of her favorite people would undoubtedly be her signature phrase: “I LOVE YOU MORE……”

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Jane's online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006.