Karl Evan "Ponch" Hoffacker Jr.

Karl "Ponch" Evan Hoffacker Jr., age 79, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025. Born on December 6, 1945, in Cleveland, Ohio, he was the beloved son of Karl and Elsie (née Simmonds) Hoffacker. Karl lived a life marked by faith, curiosity, kindness, and a genuine love for people.
Karl grew up with a deep appreciation for music. He played trombone in the high school bands at Brush and West Geauga, where he developed a lifelong fondness for the rich sounds of big band music. He also loved Southern gospel, often sharing his favorite songs and the joy they brought him with others.
Blessed with an impeccable memory, Karl had a remarkable talent for trivia and was known as a true wizard at Trivial Pursuit. His quick recall and vast knowledge made him both an entertaining opponent and an admired teammate. He delighted in learning new facts and sharing them with his warm, good-natured spirit.
Faith played a central role throughout Karl's life. He was an active churchgoer and a devoted Sunday school teacher, offering guidance, encouragement, and heartfelt lessons to those he taught. His gentle spirit and steady devotion left an imprint on everyone who learned from him.
Karl is survived by his brother Kurt (Dorothy) Hoffacker; his sisters Faith Whitcomb and Kris (Rob) Moore; and his nieces Nadine (Eric) Toth, Janna (Mike) Luck, Joy (Paul) Cimino, Michelle (Rob) Rodriguez, Kathryn (Al) Wozniak, and Victoria (Mike Jurney) Moore. He is also survived by his great-nieces Nicole Toth, Brittany Burkholder, Rachel (Alex) Luck, Kelly (Jaime) McClelland, and Julia Rodriguez; and his great-nephews David (Bethany) Toth, Daniel (Shari) Toth, Jared (Frances) Toth, Jason (Jessica) Luck, Richard "Ricky" (Alli) Cimino, Tyler Rodriguez, Joel (Audrey) Rodriguez, and Evan Rodriguez. In addition, Karl is survived by ten great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, along with many other extended family members who loved him dearly. He is also survived by his cousin Brian Gilbert.
Karl was preceded in death by his parents, Karl and Elsie Hoffacker, his brother-in-law Richard G. Whitcomb and nephew Richard G. Whitcomb Jr.
A private family burial will be held, with a celebration of life to follow at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cleveland Sight Center, 1909 East 101st Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
Arrangements are entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.