Robert Harold Hoffman

Robert Harold Hoffman, known affectionately as Bob, passed away peacefully at home in Waseca on March 7, 2025, leaving behind a legacy marked by dedication, leadership, and deep connections with those he influenced throughout his life. Born on May 14, 1944, in Granite Falls, Minnesota, Bob's journey began in a small town where he would eventually set forth on a remarkable path of service and commitment to education and community.

Bob graduated from Renville Public School with the class of 1962 before attending Gustavus Adolphus College, where he played football for one year. He later transferred to Mankato State University, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in education in 1966 and subsequently obtaining his Master of Science degree in educational administration in 1969, while playing baseball for the Mavericks. Furthering his education, he achieved his Doctorate of Education from Utah State University in 1972.

Bob launched his illustrious career in education in 1966, teaching senior high English in Redwood Falls, where he also coached track, football, and basketball. His leadership journey continued as he became the high school principal in Wanamingo, then went on to be the Assistant Superintendent in Worthington. In 1972, at the youthful age of 29, he took on the role of Superintendent of Schools in Waseca, a position he initially thought would last only a couple of years, but which became the cornerstone of his life's work and dedication to the community.

In Waseca, Bob was much more than an administrator; he became a vital part of the community fabric. He transitioned to a leadership role in the private sector, joining Brown Printing in various leadership roles, ultimately becoming the Vice President of Sales and Marketing. In 1988, he joined Taylor Corporation in North Mankato, leading operations within the commercial division until his first retirement in 2007.

Bob’s commitment to education extended beyond his professional roles. He significantly contributed to various boards and organizations that enriched the educational landscape and community initiatives. He served on the National Board of Directors for AAL, was pivotal in the merger that formed Thrivent Financial, and contributed to the Gustavus Adolphus Alumni Association, among many others. His service with the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Board of Trustees (MNSCU) showcased his dedication to enhancing educational opportunities across the state.

A man of compassion and community spirit, Bob never lost sight of the importance of giving back. He actively participated in local organizations such as the Waseca Area Memorial Hospital Board, the Waseca Youth Basketball Association, and various service clubs including Kiwanis, Rotary, and Lions Club. His commitment to his faith was evident through his active membership at Grace Lutheran Church, where he taught Sunday School for many years.

Bob's passion in life was forging connections with people. He greatly enjoyed socializing with friends at Waseca Lakeside Club, his local coffee group, his lunch group at Tavern 23, or just around town. His inspiring mantras, including "Jet Pilots don't have rear view mirrors" or "Onward and Upward," encapsulated his optimistic outlook. He approached his work not as a job, but as a fulfilling lifestyle where he sought to mentor and uplift others. A strong faith guided him, and he was an unwavering presence in the lives of his family.

On June 10, 1967, Bob was united in marriage to Judy Larson at Sandhill Lutheran Church in Climax, Minnesota. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Kelly, John, and Ryan. No matter how busy Bob was with his career he always took time to be present with his wife and kids. When away from work, he would call home every night to talk to Judy and each one of his children. He always found time to take his kids boating or fishing, he attended all their activities and most recently has cherished being present in the lives of his grandchildren. Bob's legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing him, and he will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Harold Hoffman; mother, Bernice Barber; and step-father, Jule Barber. Bob is survived by his loving wife of nearly 58 years, Judy, of Waseca; children: Kelly (Mark) Thompson of Lee's Summit, MO, John Hoffman of Dallas, TX, and Ryan (Sarah) Hoffman of Waseca; grandchildren: Trevor, Abby, and Carlie Thompson, Ashton Hoffman, and Samarah, Isaiah, and Amiya Hoffman; siblings: Lowell (Jenny) Hoffman of Belle Plaine and Joan Hoffman of Eden Prairie; as well as brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Linda (Darren) Pahl of Zumbrota, Arlan (Dana) Larson of Climax, MN, Wanda (Bill) Scoville of Fargo, and Owen (Connie) Larson of Climax. He is also remembered by many special cousins with whom he shared close bonds, as well as nieces, nephews, and countless other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 PM on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Grace Lutheran Church in Waseca.

Funeral service for Bob will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Grace Lutheran Church in Waseca, with Pastor Jillene Gallatin, officiating. The burial will be in Woodville Cemetery at Waseca.