Samuel Bruce Hoffman

Sam was born in Webb City, MO in 1923 and grew up in Miami, OK where he graduated high school before attending Northeastern Oklahoma A&M. His military service began in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Army Air Corps which became the U.S. Air Force in 1943. He completed 100 missions in Korea and was awarded a Purple Heart, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Force Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service, and the Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, for his service in the Korean War. He was Base Commander at Bartow Air Force Base in 1960 when Hurricane Donna struck. He continued his career in the Air Force until his retirement in 1966.

He worked at General Dynamics in Ft. Worth and in 1969 contracted with the USAF as a pilot instructor for Columbus Air Force Base. He moved to San Antonio to continue pilot training for the Air Force until 1979. Joske's of Texas recognized Sam as the employee of the month in 1982.

Sam was an avid cyclist throughout his adult life, completing countless hours and miles in the hill country of Texas, accompanied by close friends who shared his passion.

He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to many whose lives he touched. Given his sense of humor and clear memories of his life and military service, his stories will be treasured by those who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Felix Hoffman and Vera L. Bruce Hoffman, and sister, Jane Smith of Oklahoma.

Sam is survived by his wife, Lynne Wheeler Hoffman of San Antonio, TX; son, Bruce Scott Hoffman and fianc, Amy Bailey of West Point, MS; daughters, Janice "Sam" Elizabeth Ballard and husband, Larry Ballard of Columbus, MS, Susan Hope Hoffman Dillard and husband, Chuck Dillard of El Paso, TX, granddaughter, Jamie Starr Hoffman and great-granddaughters, Alyssa Starr and Marley Starr of Gulfport, MS; sisters, Jean Kannady and Joanne Mead and family friends, Margie Ivy, Cathy and Chris Kline, and Kevin and Janine Ivy. Quote from "High Flight", written by John Gillespie McGee, Jr.

Memorial Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 27, 2014 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Porter Loring on McCullough Ave.

MEMORIAL GRAVESIDE

MONDAY

JULY 28, 2014

2:45 P.M.

FORT SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

1520 HARRY WURZBACH ROAD

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society or donate a pint of blood.