Jack Wayne Hoffman

Jack Wayne Hoffman, born November 19, 1935, in Newton, Kansas, passed away surrounded by family after a long life defined by devotion, curiosity, and service. Raised in Hesston in a small Mennonite community, he grew up in a world where everyone knew one another — the kind of place where you could pick up the phone and simply say to the operator, “Flossie, I want to talk to Mom.” His father was the editor and owner of the Hesston newspaper before becoming a “lineman for the county,” and his mother proudly served as a real-life “Rosie the Riveter.”

He moved to Newton in the eighth grade and, on New Year’s Eve 1949, met the girl who would become the love of his life, Bobbie (Barbara) Sechler. He graduated from Newton High School in 1953, attended Kansas State for a year, and then joined the United States Air Force. A Boy Scout throughout his youth, he attended the National Camporee in 1950 — an early sign of the adventurous spirit that would follow him throughout his life.

He married in 1954, and soon after moved to Castle Air Force Base in California, where B 52 pilots trained. Working in Air Force accounting, he and Barbara welcomed their first child, Terri, in 1956. The family moved to Denver in 1957 and then to Colorado Springs in 1958, where he worked at the newly established Air Force Academy.

After completing five years of military service, he returned to Kansas State to finish his degree. Living in the basement apartment of a building he managed, he and Barbara welcomed their son, Jack, in 1960. He graduated in 1962 and moved the family to Santa Maria, California, where he worked as a mechanical engineer for General Dynamics/Convair at Vandenberg AFB on early rocket programs. Their daughter, Paula, was born in 1963.

He was a deeply involved father — coaching Little League, Lassie League, Boy Scouts, and swimming, and cheering through baseball, softball, gymnastics, track meets, and volleyball. He played church softball and built a home filled with motion, encouragement, and pride.

In July 1965, the family moved to Merritt Island, Florida, where he began work with Chrysler on the Apollo program. His aerospace career spanned decades and multiple landmark programs: Chrysler (1965–1975), PRC (1975–1977), USBI on the Space Shuttle program (1977–1984), and Lockheed (1984–1996). He retired in 1996 after contributing to some of the most significant chapters in American space history.

Retirement didn’t slow him down. He became a docent at the Saturn V Center and the Air Force Space Museum for 15 years, sharing stories of exploration with visitors from around the world. He and his wife delivered Meals on Wheels together, continuing their lifelong commitment to service.

Square dancing became a joyful second life. Beginning lessons in 1987, he went on to serve in nearly every leadership role imaginable:

• Hall of Fame inductee (May 24, 2014)

• 47th NSDC Social & Special Events Assistant Chairman

• FSDC Treasurer (1999, 2004, 2009, 2011)

• FSDC Decorations Chairman (2013)

• FSDC Assistant Chairman (2014)

• FSDC Chairman (2015)

• CFA Assistant Chairman of Party Weekend (7 years)

• Federation President (2012)

• Space Trackers Treasurer (many years) and President (1993–1995)

• CFA Couple of the Year (1997) and President (2004–2006)

He was known for his fisherman’s hat, his long walks around the “big block,” and his remarkable biking adventures — including 23 mile rides and the unforgettable journey from Marathon to Key West.

He lived a life of purpose, curiosity, and generosity. He loved his family fiercely, served his country and community faithfully, and embraced every chapter with energy and gratitude.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Hoffman; his children Terri Little, Jack Hoffman (Renee), and Paula Fletcher (Chris); eight grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren. His legacy lives on in each of them — in their stories, their laughter, and the values he passed down through a lifetime of example.

A celebration of his life will be held on August 24 at Grace United Methodist Church, 65 Needle Blvd, Merritt Island. The viewing will take place from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. A reception will be held in the Fellowship Hall from 12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m., with a graveside service at Brevard Memorial Park, 320 Spring St, Cocoa, at 2:00 p.m. All who knew him, worked with him, danced with him, or were touched by his kindness are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Jack’s memory to Orlando VA Fisher House, Attn: George Denby, Manager, 13800 Veterans Way, Orlando, FL 32827, Brevard County Talking Books Library, 308 Forrest Avenue, Cocoa, FL 32922, or Grace United Methodist Church, 65 Needle Blvd, Merritt Island, FL 32953— organizations that reflect his lifelong commitment to service, learning, and community.