Gilbert John Hoffman

Gilbert John Hoffman, a devoted family man, accomplished educator, and passionate collector, passed away on February 7, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, achievement, and cherished memories.

Born on December 19, 1931, in Monroe, MI, Gilbert was the son of the late Irving F. Hoffman and Gladys M. Marshall. He dedicated his life to education, earning a Specialist degree in Education/Administration from the University of Michigan. Gilbert served as the retired high school principal of Southgate Anderson High School, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of countless students.

In his personal life, Gilbert was preceded with his bother, Roland I Hoffman, and was blessed with four children: Gilbert J. (the late Pam) Hoffman Jr., Mary Kay Hoffman, David R. (Joanne) Hoffman, and Lisa A. (Kevin) Roussey. His seven grandchildren, Raymond, Ryan, Paul Michael III, Thomas, Alexandria "Lexi,", Leanne, and Lukas, as well as two great-grandchildren, Mackenzie and Paul Michael IV, were a source of immense joy and pride for him.

In addition to his immediate family, Gilbert is survived by nieces and nephews Christine (Chuck) Mudge, Jonathan (Beverly) Hoffman, Roland (Alice) Hoffman Jr., as well as great-nieces and great-nephews whom he held dear. He was also a cherished friend of John (Susan) Bondy.

Gilbert was a family man at heart, sharing his life with his high school sweetheart, the late Elizabeth Thoms, with whom he had four children in Trenton. Later in life, he found love again with Virginia Hinden, who also preceded him in death. Gilbert was a stepfather to Debra, John, and Jim Hinden, and he cherished his extended family.

A man of diverse interests, Gilbert was renowned for his 50-plus-year passion for collecting WWI and WWII guns and relics. His expertise made him a respected member of the NRA and the Ohio Gun Collectors Association. Additionally, Gilbert had a love for sports, enjoying baseball, tennis, golf, and hunting up north.

Among his many accomplishments, Gilbert achieved the rare feat of three separate, validated hole-in-ones in golf, a source of immense pride for him. He also had a deep appreciation for his bucket list trips, exploring Germany, Poland, France, Italy, and Alaska in his 80s.

Gilbert's favorite moments were spent surrounded by loved ones, attending gun shows, and camping during summers with his late wife Elizabeth and their children. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a passion for life that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Gilbert John Hoffman's presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A private cremation will be held in the care of Solosy Funeral Home.