Wilfried Hoffmann unexpectedly passed away on Saturday, July 13, 2024, after spending a life devoted to supporting his family.
Born in Germany, Wilfried grew up with his parents, Walter and Gertrud Hoffmann, in the borough of Bergedorf, just outside Hamburg.
Wilfried always enjoyed spending time with friends and family near the Elbe River, where the seven seas meet at the Port of Hamburg. Wilfried played for Hamburger Sport-Verein during his youth, becoming a lifelong supporter and fan of “fußball” (called foosball in the U.S.).
Wilfried completed his public service in the West German Army as a field engineer. Wilfried instructed others on operating tanks while always ensuring a field kitchen needing “repair” was nearby. Wilfried worked for Hauni Maschinbau GmbH for more than 50 years, becoming a mechanical engineer designing high speed manufacturing equipment for various industries around the world.
During his travels around the world, he met the love of his life, Kay, in Louisville, Ky. at a cookout with colleagues that would become lifelong friends and family. After living in Germany, Wilfried and Kay eventually settled in Richmond, where they raised their sons, Jason and Lucas. Wilfried shared his love of sports with his sons by supporting their youth athletics, even being Coach Hoffmann when needed. Wilfried loved spending time with his three grandchildren, Andrew, Olivia and Cayden.
Wilfried was not a person of many words, preferring to express his love of family and friends through actions. We all knew Wilfried for his can-do approach and do-it-yourself attitude to tasks big and small. He was always willing to share his knowledge and lend a helping hand. When not helping others, Wilfried could be found spending time with his beloved dogs, working on his model railroads or expanding his skills as an amateur stonemason.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Humane Society, ASPCA or your local animal welfare group to ensure pets find their forever home and are treated with respect and love.
Wilfried’s celebration of life for family and friends is planned for 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19 at The Tide’s Inn, 480 King Carter Drive, Irvington.
