Gerald Raymond Hoffman

Gerald Raymond Hoffman, 96, passed away on January 8, 2025 in Appleton, WI. He was born on December 6, 1928 near Wausau, WI to the late Bernard and Mary (Deininger) Hoffmann.

Gerry graduated from Wausau High School in 1946 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry from St. Mary’s College in Winona, Minnesota in May 1950. He served in the US Navy from 1950 to 1954 during the Korean War. Following his service, Gerry worked as a research chemist at the Institute of Paper Chemistry in Appleton for 34 years. Gerry married Marguerite Laemmrich on May 10, 1958, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Menasha.

Gerry enjoyed spending time at the family cottage on Lake Pesobic, north of Merrill. He had a passion for gardening, reading, and creating puzzles, which he enjoyed showcasing. Gerry was a Packers fan and loved playing sheepshead. He was actively involved at St. Mary Catholic Church, contrib­uting in various capacities and supporting community activities. Gerry was also very active in the Boy Scouts, where he played a vital role in mentoring young people. He often visited nursing homes and will be remembered for his deep faith, his love and commitment to family and friends and all the jokes, puzzles and gadgets he shared with everyone. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.

Gerald is survived by his wife Marguerite, sons Luke (Barbara), Peter (Mary Beth), Paul (Beth), David, Mark and Andrew, grandchildren Marie (Erik) Peterson, Matthew (Alyssa), John, Lori, Nicholas, Samuel, Lucas, Kathryn, Isabel and Sarah Hoffman; great-grandchildren Ingrid and Reid Peterson and Ryker and Bronson Hoffman.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, two infant sons Joseph and Matthew, his brother Clarence and sisters Jeanette Hart and Betty Tesch.

A funeral mass for Gerald will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church, 528 Second St. in Menasha, on Thursday, January 16, 2025 at 11:00 am with Fr. Michael Lightner officiating. The visitation will begin at 9:00 am until the time of the mass, followed by military honors. Internment will take place at St. Mary Cemetery in Menasha.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Gerry’s memory to the Renaissance Fund of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

The family would like to thank the entire staff of The Heritage for their compassionate care of Gerald.