Obituary
Guest Book
Gerald John Hoffman, known as "Jerry", passed away peacefully in his home with Emma at his side, on August 13, 2025, at the age of 81, after battling Lewy Body Dementia, Vascular Dementia, Parkinson's and PTSD from his service in Vietnam.
Jerry was born on July 6, 1944, in Chicago, IL. He lived a life marked by service and strength. He was a role model, mentor, and supportive father and husband. Jerry proudly served his country from 1965 to 1967 as a first calvary combat veteran in the U.S. Army. He surpassed expectations during his service as a Crew Chief for a Huey helicopter and a Door Gunner, earning a bronze star, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantry Medal, Air Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Aircraft Crewman Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Sharp Shooter Medal M14, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit and Citation Badge. Following his military service, Jerry worked in the corrections field and was highly respected by his colleagues.
Jerry married his loving wife, Emma Hoffman, on August 16, 1995. She survives along with their children, Zach, Richard, David, Dayna, Steven, several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
He was a proud member of Patriots for Warriors and found joy in spending time with family and friends, fishing, music, shooting pool, visiting casinos, and cheering on his beloved Chicago Bears.
Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mildred (Turek) Hoffman, and his brothers, Bud, Don, and Bob.
A celebration of Jerry's life will be held on August 22, 2025, at Highland Community Church- Weston Campus, 6615 County Road J, Weston, WI. Visitation will be from 9:30 until the time of service at 11:00 am. Paster Dan MacDonald will officiate. Jerry will be laid to rest at a later date in Northwoods National Cemetery in Harshaw, WI.
Our family wishes to say thank you to St. Croix Hospice, Bill and Jodie Johnston, Linda Pellitier, Randy Hoffmann, and Pastor Dan MacDonald.
Brainard Funeral Home- Everest Chapel is assisting the family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more