John P. Hoffman, Jr

HOFFMAN, John, Jr.
Portage Passed away peacefully, Saturday, October 11, 2008 with his family at his side. He was born February 22, 1923 in Kalamazoo, the son of John, Sr. and Blanche Pickard Hoffman and had been a lifelong resident of Portage. John graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1941 and from Western Michigan University. He retired from the Upjohn Company with 42 years of faithful service in engineering. John had an extreme love for animals. He earned his pilots license in 1947 and enjoyed owning and piloting small aircraft. John was also an avid bowler, played baseball for Upjohn, golfed, photography, building houses, Las Vegas vacations, cars and John loved to dance. He was very well known for his sense of humor and knowledge of good jokes. He also treasured time with his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant son, John P. Hoffman, III "Johnnie"; and a son-in-law, Buster Baird. He is survived by his wife, Joan Hoffman; children, James Dorotha Hoffman, Debra Steve Newton Baird and Joan Robert Lajiness; step-children, Tom Chris Williams, Jeffrey Barbara Williams and David Robbin Williams; grandchildren, Jason Hoffman, Jon Shellby Hoffman and Nicole Baird; step-grandchildren, Megan Williams and Michael Williams; several nieces, nephews and great grandchildren. The family will receive friends at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre St. on Monday from 4-6 PM, followed by a Service of Celebration at 6:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 11:00 AM in St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 5855 East W Avenue, followed by a luncheon in the church fellowship hall. Memorials may be given to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan or St. Martin of Tour Church. www.langelands.com 343-1508