Richard A. Hoffman, Sr, known to all as Dick Hoffman, 83 of Worcester passed away peacefully Friday, January 16th, in his home. He leaves his wife of 61 years, Norma L. (Cahill) Hoffman, his daughter, Joanne N. Gilley of Springfield, his son Richard A. Hoffman, Jr and wife Janet of Pembroke, his 4 grandchildren, Brian Gilley and wife Michelle of Springfield, Timothy Hoffman of Los Angeles, CA, Stephen Hoffman and wife Danielle of Rockland, Traci (Gilley) Martin and husband Conor of Springfield, 2 great-grandchildren, Rachael and Jacob Hoffman, several nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his daughter, Nancy A Hoffman in 1967.
Dick was born in Springfield, the son of Joseph and Ruby (Durgin) Hoffman. He was raised in Worcester by his uncle and aunt, Fred and Regina Durgin. He graduated from the former High School of Commerce. After graduating high school he entered the U.S. Navy and proudly served during the Korean War on the U.S.S. Siskin minesweeper.
He was employed for many years at Heald Machine Company as a security guard, a member of the volunteer fire brigade, and retired as an assistant foreman of inspections in 1993.
In his early years of life, Dick greatly enjoyed fishing with his son. His other passions were renovating his home of 45 years and transformed an ordinary backyard into beautiful picturesque gardens. He was a self-taught man and loved woodworking and bird carving. His impressive artwork was displayed at many local gift shops and craft fairs.
A visiting hour will be held from 9:30 until 10:30 A.M. Friday, January 23rd in O'CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue. His funeral service will follow at 10:30 A.M. in the funeral home. Burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to St. Jude Children Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.