Larry O. Hoff, 82, passed away peacefully surrounded by his beloved family on August 8, 2024, at Regina Hospital in Hastings.
Born on January 4, 1942, in Lanesboro, Minn., to Myles and Vernice (Nelson) Hoff, Larry grew up on the family farm in Rural Fillmore County, the second of five children. From an early age, Larry exhibited a profound empathy for others, a trait that defined his character throughout his life.
In the second grade, Larry met his lifelong love, Nancy Johnson. Their enduring love story led them to the altar in 1961, in Mabel, Minn. The couple cherished their life together, welcoming six children and settling in Hastings in 1968. Larry’s love for Nancy was a constant, evident in the way he spoke of her, “He loved her his entire life.”
Larry’s passion for life was unmatched. He was respected and well-liked, known for his handyman skills, able to “rig just about anything.” His career spanned many fields; he was a farmer, logger, construction worker, owned a successful garage door business for many years, and retired from the Dakota County Parks Dept as carpenter and park maintenance. Beyond his professional pursuits, Larry’s love for music led him to play in an old-time country band. He had a passion for woodworking, birdwatching and gardening, singing to Nancy, but above all, he cherished spending time with his family. Larry’s sense of humor was infectious, especially known for making funny faces in pictures, a simple joy that brought laughter to those around him.
Larry is survived by his devoted wife Nancy, daughters Mary (Brent) Lohmann, Patti (Jeff) McTague, Julie (Doug) Boyd and Jolene Hoff; son Jonathan (Becky) Hoff, 13 grandchildren: Jake, Josh, Jenna, Jordan, Jami, Jared, Brandon, Brittany, Caitlyn, Alissa, Charlie, Hailey and Hunter; and nine great-grandchildren; his sisters Loretta Halverson and Veronica (Richard) Sticha, and brother Roger (Nancy) Hoff, along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Donavan (Laura) Hoff, daughter Kristi Hoff, infant son Scott Hoff, brothers-in-law Leonard Halverson and Carrol Johnson, sister-in-law Marilyn Johnson, and nephew Steve Sticha.
Larry’s life was a testament to the values he held dear – family, kindness and generosity. He will be remembered as a kind and giving man who loved his family beyond measure. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched with his warm heart and caring spirit.
A celebration of Larry’s life will be held at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 400 W. 9th Street, Hastings, Minn., on Friday, August 16, 2024, at 11:30 a.m., with a visitation from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.
Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.
Al Barth says
Larry, may you rest in peace. Oh what great times we had when we were young!