Gerald Hoeffel

Napoleon - Gerald "Jerry" Lynn Hoeffel, 87, of Napoleon, Ohio, went home to the Lord on Thursday, October 23, 2025. He was born in Napoleon, Ohio, to the late Albert and Fernelia (Travis) Hoeffel. On May 7, 1960, he married Janice K. Swick at Christ United Methodist Church of Napoleon and spent a loving 51 years together. She preceded him in death on March 27, 2011.

Jerry was the best father, grandfather and friend and loved to get to know anyone. He had a way of making each of his daughters feel special in their own way. Jerry was a member of Christ United Methodist Church of Napoleon and would often help with church community meals and various jobs around the church to keep active. In his spare time, he would often keep busy with yardwork, woodworking, spending time with his loving family, or hanging out at McDonalds with the coffee club. His jokester and kind personality always kept him enjoying the small things in life.

Jerry is survived by his children, Julie Hoeffel, Jennifer Hoeffel, Jeanise (Becky Brandt) Hoeffel, and Jane (Darren) Sonnenberg; grandchildren, Trey (Nikki) Sonnenberg, and Ellie (Matt) Bosworth; great-grandchildren, Crew, Greyson, JD, Hazel, and Violet; as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jerry is preceded in death by his loving wife Janice, and brother, James Hoeffel Sr.

A memorial gathering will be held at Rodenberger-Gray Funeral Home, Napoleon, on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. A memorial service will be held for Jerry at Christ United Methodist Church, Napoleon, on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 11 a.m., with a gathering from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Inurnment will follow the service at Hoy Cemetery, Napoleon. A luncheon will be provided at the church immediately following the cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made out to Christ United Methodist Church. Online condolences may also be left for the family at www.rodenbergergray.com.