In Memoriam: Rev. John M. Hofman

John M. Hofman, 90, a man of patient and peaceable demeanor, was concerned about issues of justice and well-being and a keen observer of church and Christian life. He passed away on December 20 of a heart ailment.

Hofman was born and raised in Alberta, where his family attended Nobleford Christian Reformed Church. After two years of study at the University of Alberta, he attended Calvin College and Seminary, graduating in 1952. He and his brother Tymen were the first Canadian-born students to be enrolled at that school.

Hofman served the following CRC congregations: Grangeville (Idaho) CRC; First CRC (now River Terrace) in Lansing, Mich.; and Ideal Park CRC in Wyoming, Mich. After retirement in 1990, he served 12 congregations that were without a pastor.

Hofman served the church with respect and diligence, focusing on the pulpit ministry and congregational work. He belonged to the generation of pastors who grew up in the wake of the Great Depression, which remained a dimension in his life. He was very much a people person. It was said of him that he never forgot anyone’s name.

He cared deeply about  his family and successfully balanced family and ministerial life. His love for sports went back to his younger years. He developed friendships with many international families from his active involvement in campus ministry in Lansing. At Young Calvinist conventions he served as a  dedicated youth counselor.

Hofman is survived by his wife, Bertha, and their children Marvin and Mary Hofman,  Ruth Hofman and Steve Venhuizen,  Gregory and Judy Hofman, Thomas and Wendy Hofman, and by 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.