Gary Hoffman

Gary Wayne Hoffman Gary Wayne Hoffman, of Bethlehem PA passed away on Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025. He is now fully healed. To know Gary, was to simply love him! He was a man of deep faith, quiet character, simplicity, kindness and the love he had for his family was unlike any other! Gary was the son of the late Roy and Catherine Hoffman of Catasaqua, PA. And the brother of the late Dale Hoffman (Connie) and surviving siblings Faye Porkrifka (John) and Gene Hoffman (late Paula). He grew up in Catasaqua, graduating from Catty High School in 1963 and then going on to get his B.A in Christian Education from Lee's College. Gary ended up as a draftsman for Mack Trucks for almost 30 years, where he retired! Gary won the jackpot of second chances when he met his beautiful wife Diane and her two daughters Michele and Jen in 1983. The two wed on February 22, 1985 and started what would become a lasting legacy for their families! Their family grew by two in December of 1985 with their son Joshua and again in November of 1987 with their daughter Sarah! Gary's love for his family was something that defined him. Those that knew him well, knew his favorite place to be was right there, wherever his family was; watching, smiling, laughing or cracking one liners with that signature smile and piercing blue eyes that filled a room! His family has always been his favorite thing and is what kept his fight so strong, even until the very end! As a husband, he loved Diane with all his heart! Their story, though not always easy, was one of endurance, perseverance and allowing the Lord to lead with love! They would do many things together like travel, go to concerts and plays, enjoy time with friends while camping or visiting new places and follow their kids and grandkids around making memories that will carry the family through! Diane was his anchor. She selflessly served her husband through an almost two decade diagnosis of Parkinson's disease where she not only had to balance the love of being a wife but time and time again gave all she had to care for him through every appointment, hospital stay, surgery and more. Gary knew he was okay when Diane was with him! Their love is something that will breathe into the generations to come because of its strength and foundation in Christ. As a father, there was none like him! He cared for two girls that were never his by blood, but one would never know! He raised his kids with kindness, compassion and confidence, supporting them in any and every way he could. He attended concerts, plays and games on games even when he had no clue what was going on, simply so he could celebrate each of them as they did! He cheered them on into successful careers and families, with a firm foundation of faith for them all to stand and fall back on! He was so proud of each one of his kids and loved them deeply. As a Pop Pop, he was just the best! He loved his eight grandkids (Cory, Macaley, Devon, Jayce, Autumn, Crosby, Teddy and Palmer) with every part of him. Even when Parkinson's took so much from him, he would get on the floor to play or do puzzles, do the things he wasn't supposed to just to get them all to smile and craft with any of the ones that wanted to! He loved just sitting in the room and watching them all be themselves; sneak them snacks and ice cream when their parents weren't looking and make sure they knew just how much he loved them! As a man, the world lost a legend. He was full of the genuine kindness that's often lost in this world. He would remember your name, smile at you when you said hello and mean it when he said he'd be praying for you! He left a quiet but impactful impression on everyone he came in contact with. He was full of artistic talents that made this world beautiful from his famous cakes he decorated, to the many cross stitches he's gifted and all the painting, coloring and designing he's done in between! He loved bright colors and pretty flowers. He was a gardener for most of his life, creating a meticulous backyard garden with abundance of fruits and vegetables and a front row of gorgeous flowers that were always picture worthy. He was musical, serving in many choirs and worship teams over the years. He played piano for as long as he could and would sing that bass line till his voice gave out! Knowing Gary, was knowing God's love and that will never be forgotten! Gary is survived by Diane, his children; Michele Vitez (Ernie), Jennifer Greenawalt (Wade,) Joshua Hoffman (Lauren), Sarah Reese (Bradley) and eight grandchildren; Cory, Macaley, Devon, Jayce, Autumn, Crosby, Teddy and Palmer! A Celebration of Life service is planned for Friday, May 9. A calling hour will be from 5-6pm with the service beginning at 6pm. A dessert reception to follow, all at New Covenant Christian Community Church in Bethlehem (21 East Broad St)