Daniel Robert Hoffman, II, 73, of Bellefonte, passed away at home on Monday, January 16, 2023. Born on November 2, 1949, in Baltimore, Maryland, he was the son of the late Daniel Robert and Doris Rose (Nichols) Hoffman. On September 4, 1971, he married the love of his life, Linda Susan (Phelps) Hoffman, who survives at home after sharing over 51 years of marriage together.
Dan was a 1967 graduate of Lakewood High School in Lakewood, Ohio. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. After his time in the Marines, he began his career with the State College Borough Police Department in 1973. He retired in 1993, after 20 years of service in law enforcement. After his retirement, he was elected District Court Judge, continuing to serve for an additional 20 years.
In addition to his wife, Linda, he is survived by their three sons, Todd Hoffman of State College, Tom Hoffman (Stacy) of Parker, Colorado, and James Hoffman of Bellefonte, and one grandson, Caleb of Parker, Colorado; Also surviving are two sisters, Judi Fey (Richard) of Hide-out, Utah, and Janet Hignett (Will) of Pittsburgh, five nieces and 14 great-nieces and nephews.
Dan attended Faith United Methodist Church in Bellefonte. He was also currently serving on the Spring Benner Walker Sewer Authority Board. He was a past member of the VFW Post #1600 in Bellefonte, the Bellefonte Jaycees, the Spring Township Planning Committee, as well as serving on the Finance Committee for the ARC.
Dan enjoyed his Monday morning trips to the grocery store, and cooking. He was the “Chief Cook,” not only at home, but also fondly loved as the Chief Gravy Maker for the Christmas dinner at church! He also enjoyed working outside around his house. Dan was a caring person, always willing and able to lend a hand wherever possible. He often found himself at the church helping Linda, coaching little league when Tom was young, and volunteering with his son James to mow at the church as well. Dan loved the ocean and would always look forward to the family trips to the Outer Banks twice each year, where he enjoyed going crabbing. A firearms enthusiast, Dan was an avid collector of guns. He and his grandson, Caleb, especially bonded over Dan’s interest in guns, teaching him the importance of gun safety and how to shoot safely from a young age. Over the years, he enjoyed reloading his own ammunition for small game hunting and target shooting. He applied his extensive knowledge of firearms as he took a part time position at J&E Guns after his second retirement.
A loving and supportive husband, an attentive dad, and a compassionate grandfather, affectionately referred to as “Pappy,” Dan will be remembered for his giving spirit and his contagious smile by all who knew him. His loved ones will forever cherish the countless memories that he leaves behind.
Family and friends will be received on Saturday, January 28, 2023, from 10 A.M. until 12 P.M, at Faith United Methodist Church, 512 Hughes Street, Bellefonte. A Celebration of Life service will directly follow, beginning at 12 P.M. at the church, with Rev. Andrew Morgan officiating. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. in Bellefonte.