Concordia Louise Hoffmann

Concordia, known as "Cordie" to family and friends was the beloved daughter of Pastor O.E. Hoffmann and Ella Hoffmann, who preceded her in death. Her older brother Donald, also a pastor, has also passed. She is survived by her younger brother Myron and his wife Patricia, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. Notable among this group is grand niece Sara Compton who established a loving and supportive bond with Concordia in her last few years.
Concordia attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison and graduated with a Master's degree in English and American Literature. Shortly after graduation, she began a lengthy teaching career at South Suburban College in South Holland, IL. She excelled at teaching creative writing, and her wit and intelligence endeared her to many of her students over the years. Concordia pursued her appreciation of fine literature outside the classroom as well, and she was an avid reader her entire life.
Music, as well as literature, was an overarching element in her life's journey. In her high school years, she won many awards as a singer, with a soprano voice that soared to the heights. Living many years in Chicago she availed herself of the rich cultural offerings of the city. Classical music and opera were constants in her life, and she delighted especially in the programs of the Lyric Opera.
Concordia's life was enriched by her love of travel. She took great pleasure in visiting her brother Myron, his wife Patricia and their children Heidi, Eric and Kristina. As an American diplomat, Myron served in numerous countries in Europe and South America, and Cordie was always a welcome visitor. Traveling has its challenges, but Cordie was always a good sport, determined to enjoy and to spread joy, which she did so often with her nieces and nephew.
Her latter years were sometimes difficult. Most salient of the problems she confronted was total loss of hearing. No more concerts, no more opera, and an end to easy interaction with friends and family. But she persevered, she adapted. Her Christian faith was a source of comfort and hope.
She was well loved, and she will be missed.