David C. Hoffmaster Jr.

David (Dave) C. Hoffmaster, Jr. passed away at the age of 67 in his home in Ocean View, DE on the evening of Tuesday, July 30, 2024. He was surrounded by his devoted wife and children for the days preceding and at the moment of his passing.
Dave was born on December 30, 1956, in Washington, DC, to David C. Hoffmaster, Sr. and Mary Joann Hoffmaster (Cornwell). As the eldest of six siblings, he exemplified faithful servitude to both family and community, demonstrating integrity and humility in all he did. He attended Oxon Hill High School in Oxon Hill, Maryland, and later earned a Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science at the University of Maryland, College Park with aspirations of becoming a veterinarian. Life had other plans, however. Dave's dedication to the service of others led him to enroll in the Northern Virginia Police Academy in January of 1979. He was sworn in as a member of the City of Alexandria Police Department (APD) in Alexandria, Virginia later that year, on July 9, 1979.
Over his 33-year career with the APD, Dave distinguished himself primarily as an exemplary Robbery Detective and leader of the Special Operations Team. His commitment to others was unmatched, both on and off duty. He was a police officer who served with genuine care and devotion to preserving safety and security for the citizens he served, but also for his brothers and sisters in uniform. He was a true hero to many, both in the literal sense and through the countless, everyday acts of kindness and courage he unconditionally carried out each day he wore the badge, every day in between, and thereafter. He retired from the APD on August 1, 2012, leaving behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts and memories of everyone he served and worked alongside.
He married his loving wife, Nancy A. Hoffmaster (Watson), on January 26, 1980. They were blessed with a beautiful marriage of 44 years. There is no doubt that Nancy was the love of his life. They had two children, David Hoffmaster, III and Katherine (Kate) Hoffmaster. They lived in Fort Washington, Maryland until Dave retired in 2012. He lived happily with Nancy in Ocean View, DE from then until his death. Their love was always evident throughout their entire marriage, but witnessing Nancy's care and devotion to Dave over the past year and three months was nothing short of profoundly moving. They truly embodied their vows, honoring them in both sickness and health and were an incredible example of love for their children and those around them.
Dave continued to serve his community prior to his cancer diagnosis and as much as he could throughout his treatment. If he wasn't in his garage working on maintaining and caring for his land and home, he could be found helping his neighbors, friends, and his community with quite literally anything they needed. Neighbors lovingly nicknamed him "The Mayor of Ocean Way Estates" due to his unwavering kindness, generosity, and support. He was the guy that everyone could count on no matter the day or time and he rarely accepted and never expected anything in return. Need your grass cut? Dave. Need someone to help you move heavy things. Dave. Need someone to drink a beer with. Definitely Dave.
He was a lifelong servant of God, never missing a service at his local Catholic Church and often volunteering as an usher and in other supportive roles. He raised his family within the Church, steadfastly upholding his faith and duty as a man of service until his last breath. Our faith comforts us with the assurance that he is now with the Father in Heaven, free from suffering.
There is no doubt that Dave's absence leaves a profound void in many hearts and minds. As many of you know, he would want us to move forward with strength and without sorrow. We hope you will join us in honoring his memory by continuing his legacy of kindness and service to others no matter where you go or who you meet. Just think, "what would Dave do"? That should cover it.
End of Watch.
Rest easy, Dad, Dave, Grandad. We love you more than words can express and we're eternally grateful for every way you blessed our lives.
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Dave is survived by his wife, Nancy, his son, David, III (Brittany) and his grandson, Brooks (5), as well as his daughter, Kate, and his grandsons, Mason (10) and Rhys (8). He is also survived by his parents, David and Joann, and his brothers and sister, Joe (Vicki), Bobby (Sue), Clare (Chris, predeceased), Philip, and Marty (Ellen) in addition to fourteen nieces and nephews, many of whom admired and loved him like another father. As we acknowledge that his influence reached well beyond his immediate family, our prayers, love, and support extend to each of you as we all find our way in a world without him.
In lieu of flowers, we request that any offerings you may wish to make in Dave's memory be made to the Alexandria Police Youth Camp
or to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.