More detail on this person: Howard John Hoffman, 92, of Cary, North Carolina passed away on Friday, July 5, 2024. Col (ret) Howard John Hoffman, born February 28, 1932 in Emmaus, PA , died peacefully with family by his side. He had a long 28 year career in the United States Army, Serving in the Korean and Vietnam wars. He told us stories about flying chinooks and carrying whole villages to safety so that they would not be harmed by the war efforts. When he returned home he met the love of his life, Clara Joyce (Joy) Houseknecht. They married and then made a deal together, she said she would follow him all around the world while he was in the army as long as she got to pick where they were to retire, and that place was Cary, NC. While he was still in the army, he attained his masters degree in public administration. He led his troops with respect, fairness, honesty and honor. Toughness was there when necessary, but it was used to teach his troops something that would be of value to them. All of that trickled down to his family life as he taught his children to be independent, respectful, fair, honest and yes there was what we called the "tough love talk" and this is how we learned the most valuable lessons that would take us far in life. That is the legacy that we will pass down to our children and for future generations to come: honor, pride, truth and loyalty. Along with all of those things came a sense of pride. After he retired he was a quiet, strong man he loved singing in the choir with his wife, gardening and tending to his lawn. He stated many times, "all I need is my family." When he loved, he loved fiercely with all his heart and soul, that too is a trait that was passed down to his children and grandchildren. He had a wonderful sense of humor, and a zest for life. He is survived by his children, William D Hoffman (Marsha) Jeanne M Hoffman and Susan J. Hoffman-Webb (Mike). His grandchildren, John Hoffman (Karen) Matt Fulda (Caitlin) Kirsten Fulda (Bryan) Kathryn Joyce Webb and Christopher John Webb. Great grandchildren; Grace Garrett, Grant Hoffman, Nylah, Zadie and Hayden Fulda and Landon Fulda-Hayes. Memorial services will be held in Cary at Christ the King Church at a future date and time. A burial with full military honor is to be held in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. We will let family and friends know when that is. Please check back or request on this site to be notifyed of updates on service information.
Burial information: Arlington National Cemetery
This information was last updated 07/22/2024
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Date posted on this site: 01/11/2025
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