Jack LaVern Hofer

Jack Hofer (91) passed away peacefully in his of home of 36 years on February 15th 2025. It was Jack’s wishes to finish out his wonderful life and pass in the comfort of his home. In his final day, Jack was comforted by two of his children, Susan and Alan, along with the fantastic hospice care team. Jack lived a full and wonderful life and left this world his way.

Jack is preceded in death by his wife Jeanne of 66 years, his siblings Lorriane, Norman & his parents Albert and Vivian. Jack had a long line of people waiting for him in heaven.

Jack was born in Freeman South Dakota on September 15th 1933 and raised in the nearby town of Bridgewater where he lived his entire childhood. Jack graduated high school in 1952 as a Bridgewater Wildcat student and athlete. He was a top athlete in all sports and highly respected by his peers. After high school Jack joined the Army (1952-1954), reserves (1954-1959). Jack served his country during the Koren War. In 1954 Jack went to work for the Government, FGIS, as a Federal Grain Inspector. This is where he met “The love of his life” Jeanne. They married in Sioux City, Iowa on September 21st 1957. They were married for 66+ years when Jeanne passed in October of 2023.

Jack retired from the Government 1992. Working for the government the Hofer family moved across the country many times. Iowa (1957-59), Minnesota (1959-68), Nebraska (1968-78), Texas (1978-87) and back to Minnesota (1987) where he retired and remained until his last days. Along the way of life, Jack and Jeanne had 4 children Darian (Lora) Joellyn (John) Susan (Steve) Alan (Julie) as well as a many wonderful grandchildren. Seth, Sabrina, Josephine, Chyanna, Skylar, and Willow as well and great grandkids Quinton, Micheal, Kamiya, Ashlynn, Jarvis, and Vera. Some of his most cherished memories were with all his grand(great)kids that he loved immensely.

After retirement Jack soon became restless and needed something to do. He went work part time at the local McDonalds – as the “fix it guy”. This is where his obsession of collecting “Happy Meal” toys started. He became an avid collector of many “collectibles”, this new found passion gave him great joy. Old fashion model cars, coins, books, pens and pencils and beer and liquor bottles from all over the world, family heirlooms, and old history, he collected it all. He also loved to carve and paint; he came from a very talented family of artist.

Jack and Jeanne traveled as much as possible their entire life. They both loved to visit family. They have 1000’s of pictures from a long life of adventures. For their 50th wedding anniversary they took cruise & train dream trip to Alaska. Jack was also avid gardener and loved to tend to his yard, flowers and veggies. His Red Fern Peony were his pride and joy, as they came from his parents’ yard in Bridgewater and have a history of more that 90 years of continued growth. Jack enjoyed writing in his spare time and was a passionate story teller. He spent many years searching and writing out his family history. Jack also spent many years volunteering for Spirit of Hope Church. Jack loved his church village and was part of many activities and outreach programs for more than 20 years.

Jack spent his last days with family and friends in his home where he found great solace and peace. Jack loved his life and did everything he set out to do. Jack will be greatly missed by all who knew him and loved him.

We will be celebrating Jack's life on March 15th, 2025. Please join us at Spirit Hope Church, 7600 Harold Ave, Golden Valley, Minnesota 55427, at 11AM with visitation one half hour prior. Lunch to follow services. All are welcome to attend.