Kenneth J. Hoffmann

Kenneth “Panama” J. Hoffmann, 72, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025, with his children by his side at St. Paul Nursing Home.

He was born on April 8, 1952, in Appleton, WI, to John and Jean Hoffmann (Hopfensperger). After graduating from Kimberly High School, he served as an Armor Recon Specialist in the Army. After his honorable service, he pursued a pipefitter apprenticeship, which laid the foundation for his career. He began his professional journey at Consolidated Papers and later retired from SCA Tissue after many years of hard work and commitment.

Ken was the go-to person whenever something needed fixing. With his skilled hands, he could troubleshoot anything from a leaky faucet to a malfunctioning engine. He was not just talented; he was also a generous soul, always ready to lend a helping hand to family, friends and neighbors without hesitation. Ken's dedication to his work was evident in everything he did, reflecting both his strong work ethic and his deep commitment to those around him. Not many people went without one of his hand-crafted pizza cutters. With every tool imaginable at his disposal, he was always prepared to tackle any job, no matter how challenging. His shop was well-organized, with everything labeled and in its proper place. If the shop door was open, it meant he was busy working and welcoming visitors. He was always open to anyone who wanted to stop by.

After retiring, he enjoyed attending car shows and loved driving his classic cars with the Valley Classic Cruisers. Ken had a unique sense of humor and often brought his Chucky doll along in his 1947 panel truck, which he affectionately named "Lumpy," during the shows.

He loved playing cribbage, sheepshead, and pool at his favorite local hangouts. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family, exploring new restaurants, and often took the lead in planning gatherings—ranging from family reunions and holidays to hosting his daughter's wedding. Whenever he went out, there was never a place where he didn’t know someone or have a story to share.

Ken fought hard in his final months to get back to his beloved shop, all while keeping his signature sense of humor intact. True to form, he left his family with some final parting words—though we can’t print them here, as they included language colorful enough to make a sailor blush.

Ken is survived by his two children, Amanda (Brandon) Vanden Elzen and Tyler Hoffmann; his two granddaughters, the “little h’s” Harper and Hunter Vanden Elzen; and siblings Dennis Hoffmann, Tom (Yun Cha) Hoffmann and Nancy Welhouse. A lifelong cat lover, he leaves behind two cats, Gertrude and Belle.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, John and Jean Hoffmann, and his brother, William (Bill) Hoffmann.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you share your favorite memories of Ken at his celebration of life, to be held at Rocky & Taras Nut Haus, Dudas, on February 16th at 11 am. 

A special thank you to St. Paul Nursing Home staff and Compassus for their care and kindness.

”Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure." - Unknown