George James Hoffman III CLAREMONT, NH -George James Hoffman III, affectionately known as Jim, peacefully passed away on June 30, 2023, in his Ocean View, DE home, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born on September 22, 1942, to Lucille Baron and George James Hoffman Jr., Jim’s journey began in Colon, Panama Canal Zone, where his maternal grandfather served as a Navy officer, and his paternal grandfather led the United States Commissary. At the age of three, Jim relocated to Claremont, New Hampshire, where his maternal French Canadian family resided. He completed his high school education in Franklin, PA. Jim’s pursuit of higher education led him to the United States Naval Training Center in Bainbridge, MD, where he served as a midshipman. He was later accepted into the Naval Academy but unfortunately had to cut short his time there due to illness. However, Jim’s determination was unwavering, and he continued his educational journey, eventually earning a Bachelor of Arts in Economy from John Carroll University. During this time, he also worked at Black & Decker, showcasing his dedication to both academics and professional growth. Jim’s career in manufacturing was both diverse and impressive, encompassing a wide range of sectors, from tools to tank engines and helicopters. He held various positions along the East Coast, honing his expertise and leaving a mark in each role he undertook. In addition, Jim ventured on a global scale, contributing his skills to a dental product company and leading restructuring efforts. His remarkable career culminated as a Senior Executive in the Defense Intelligence Agency, where his invaluable contributions left a lasting impact. Jim’s dedication and achievements in the defense sector exemplify his commitment to excellence and service. An avid sailor, he cherished sailing his boats, The Cleo and the Agorine, along the picturesque coastlines of Long Island, Florida, and the Chesapeake. Eventually, Jim traded his boat for a diesel pusher motor home, and accompanied by his wife Joelle and his beloved dog Chico, they embarked on extensive journeys across the United States and Canada, from coast to coast and north to south. During his retirement years, Jim resided in New Hampshire, where he actively participated in the Rotary Club, engaged in local politics, and pursued his passion for genealogy by tracing his ancestry in Quebec and Germany. He later relocated to Pennsylvania, where he continued his involvement in local politics and authored the book “Presidential Values, Impact on Leadership & Results.” Unfortunately, it was during this time that Alzheimer’s disease began to restrict his activities. Jim’s final move brought him to Ocean View, DE, where he found solace in walks along the beach. Jim will be remembered as a kind, honest, and proud soul. He is survived by his loving wife Joelle, his two children from a previous marriage, Kurt (Aaron) and Jeremy (Melanie), his grandson Thomas, his step-daughter Selin (Nicole) and baby Soleil, his step-son Aksel (Kellie) and little Peri, and his sister Barbara (George Deal) and brother William. A celebration of Jim’s life will take place on Friday, July 7th, in the Community Room of the Bay Forest Beach Club, 36115 Bay Forest Drive, Ocean View, DE from 11 am to 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Jim’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.act.alz.org).
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