James "Jim" Hofer

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Hold onto your hearts-because this is the story of a man who lived wide open, loved fiercely, and left a legacy that roars louder than any engine he ever tuned.

James "Jim" Ray Hofer, age 69, crossed life's final finish line on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, surrounded by the love that fueled him every day. He didn't just pass away-he passed the torch, leaving behind a trail of laughter, loyalty, and unforgettable memories that will keep burning bright.

Born in Ft. Ord, California, Jim's life began with a twist of fate and a whole lot of love. Adopted at age two by Joseph and Elaine Hofer, he grew up in Huron, South Dakota, where destiny parked him next to Karla Kolb at a drive-in movie in the summer of 1970. That night sparked a love story that would race through 51 years of marriage, tying the knot on June 1,1974; three sons, and a lifetime of adventures.

Jim was a mechanic by trade, but a racer by soul. He didn't just fix cars-he understood them, felt them, lived them. NASCAR wasn't a hobby; it was a heartbeat. Richard Petty, Rusty Wallace, and Tony Stewart weren't just drivers-they were his tribe. He and Karla crisscrossed the country in their camper, chasing races, chasing sunsets, and chasing joy together and with family and friends.

Jim's engine ran on more than horsepower-it ran on heart. He poured himself into the South Dakota Jaycees, leading Mitchell's chapter to #1 in the state and earning top recruiter honors. He didn't just organize community projects-he made them unforgettable. Toys for Tots was his crown jewel, because Jim believed every kid deserved magic. Jim was active for years in the South Dakota Jaycees, serving as Mitchell's chapter president. He was recognized nationally with the Jaycees in 1985 for his outstanding service as a chapter president. He also held District, Regional, and State office positions traveling to just about every town in South Dakota spreading the importance of being involved in your community and helping your youth.

He coached youth football and baseball with intensity, cheered from the stands like a storm (ask any referee), and drove his Suburban like a school bus on nitrous-hauling boys to games, practices, and victories. He was the dad who showed up, the coach who believed, and the fan who never sat quietly.

And when it came to family-Jim was all in. His grandchildren were his pride, his joy, his reason. He showed up for every concert, every game, every moment. His hugs were legendary, his stories were epic, and his love was unconditional. Even his dog Peaches got the VIP treatment-spoiled, adored, and deeply missed.

Jim is survived by his soulmate Karla Hofer of Parkston, SD; sons, John (Beth) Hofer of Basehor, KS and Joey (Jodi) Hofer of Mitchell, SD; and eight incredible grandchildren: Kiesha, Brock, Ty, Keira, Cole, Kale, Paige, and Piper.

Also survived by his siblings: Kyle (Brynn) Hofer of Leawood, KS; Calvin (Terri) Murray of Tea, SD; Rick (Vickie) Murray of Pierre, SD; and Cheryl (Randy) Hofer of Bridgewater, SD; along with aunt, Lynn (Larry) Reimnitz, many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jim was preceded in death by his grandfather, John Baker; his parents; his son, James "Basil" Hofer; his brother, Shane Hofer; his mother-in-law, Ever Kolb Andresen, his fathers-in-law, Basil Kolb and Alan Andresen; niece, Roxanne Hofer; many aunts, uncles, cousins and his beloved dog, Peaches.

To honor Jim's legacy, the family asks that donations be made to the Big Friend Little Friend Charity Organization-a cause close to his heart that helps kids in Mitchell afford sports gear, camp fees, and the chance to belong. Because Jim believed in lifting others up, he never stopped giving.

Jim Hofer didn't just live-he blazed. He didn't just love-he overflowed. His story is a reminder that life is meant to be loud, bold, and full of heart. So rev your engines, hug your people, and live like Jim did-with passion, purpose, and a whole lot of love.

Rest easy, Jim. You were the heartbeat of your family, the spark in your community, and the kind of man who made the world feel like home.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., Sunday, September 28, 2025, at Will Funeral Chapel in Mitchell. Funeral services will follow the visitation at 4:00 p.m.

CLICK HERE to donate to Big Friend Little Friend