Hoffman, Norman R. 1940-2024 St. Joseph, Mo.

By NewsPress Now

Norman Ray Hoffman, 83, St. Joseph, passed away Saturday, June 1, 2024.

He was born on Oct. 19, 1940, to Luther I. and Velma M. (Leslie) Hoffman, in Hemple, Missouri.

Norman was a 1960 graduate from Benton High School, an accomplishment that he was very proud of.

In 1961, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served during the Vietnam War. During his time in the service he earned several awards, including the Vietnam Service medal, Good Conduct medal, and 1 Oak Leaf Cluster. Norman was honorably discharged in 1968.

He worked as a railroad conductor for Burlington Northern Railroad for 22 years before retiring. He also worked as a personal care assistant for Unity Group Homes.

Norman was a lifetime member of the American Legion, and a member of the Abundant Faith Church of God. He was a loyal, hard-working man of faith who enjoyed birdwatching, watching Westerns and the History channel.

On March 16, 2007, he was united in marriage to Wanda J. Graham. They shared many memories together during the 17 years they were married.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Larry, Frederick, Ronnie and Raymond Hoffman; and step-son, Brian Boulting.

Survivors include his loving wife, Wanda Hoffman; children, Pam Hudson, Sherry McElfresh, Jennifer Hoffman (James Hurst), and Larry Hoffman (Tasha Shown); step-children, Lisa Edmondson and Sean Barnett (Imojean); sisters, Frieda Ashford, Gerry Becerra, and Sharon LaFave; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Farewell Services and Public Livestream 1 p.m. Thursday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Abundant Faith Church of God or the American Legion.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.