Royal Justus Hofacker

Royal Justus Hofacker, 90, of Defiance, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 8, 2026 surrounded by loved ones at The Laurels of Defiance.
He was born in Paulding, Ohio on September 25, 1935 to the late Charles and Iva (Taylor) Hofacker. On December 23, 1986 he married Janet Sherrick who survives. Royal is a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and served in the 3rd Armored Division in Germany from 1958-1960.

Royal worked as a Millwright for General Motors for 48 years until his retirement. He was one of the founding members of Defiance AmVets Post #1991. He was a life member and served as Past Commander, 9th District Commander, and held several other positions. He was also a life member of VFW #3360, Defiance American Legion #117, and Defiance Eagles #372. He enjoyed camping at Indian Lake and taking trips to Panama City during the winter months.
Royal is survived by his loving wife Janet Hofacker of Defiance, his son, Ricky Hofacker of Whitehouse, OH, daughter, Kathleen (Wally) Cooper of Defiance, and stepsons, Russ (Mary) Zinser of Woodburn, IN, and Jeff (Cindy) Zinser of Genoa, OH. He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, his brother, Bill Hofacker, and sister, Ilo (Lloyd) Marvin.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Troy Hofacker, stepson, Mark Zinser, his brothers, Charles, Gerald, Luke, and Ray Hofacker, and his sisters, Tabitha Burt, Helen Yeutter, Becky Miracle, and Betty Bambalough.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 from 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, March 12th at the funeral home, with Chaplain Jack Payton officiating. Royal will be laid to rest in Riverview Memory Gardens.
Memorials are suggested to ELARA Caring Hospice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com