Obituary for Dennis Hoffman

Dennis Reid Hoffman

July 11, 1943 – August 30, 2022

Dennis Reid Hoffman, age 79, of Perry, Oklahoma, passed away on August 30 of 2022. He is survived by a loving wife, four children and spouses, three grandchildren, friends and relatives as well as countless colleagues from a career of distinction spanning more than fifty years.

Dennis was born on July 11 of 1943 in the corner bedroom of a farmhouse in Perry, Oklahoma. From his modest roots on a farm to an industry leader in innovation, technology advancement and quality assurance engineering, Mr. Hoffman led an incredibly impactful life; his brilliance influenced many. After graduating from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Ponca City, Oklahoma, he went on to study Electrical Engineering at Oklahoma State University receiving his Bachelor of Electrical Engineering in 1966 and subsequent graduate degree from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. Dennis also pursued doctoral studies through the University of Maryland during his penultimate professional years. Although incomplete, his doctorate research translated into a decade long relationship with their research center and recruitment of top talent to North Dallas.

Marrying his high school sweetheart, Judith Carol (Walz) Hoffman, in 1964, they set roots in North Texas and were blessed to have four talented children: Mark (1967), Brian (1968), Eric (1974) and Kurt (1977). Dennis’ acclaimed career include leadership roles at Texas Instruments, Raytheon, and Lockheed Martin as well as numerous professional engagements across the globe. He also dedicated his time and expertise to the Institute of Electrical & Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Reliability Society, a professional organization he helped transform from regional off-shoot to international network including multiple tenures as Reliability Society President. Although Dennis was incredibly dedicated to his profession; nothing brought more joy or pride than simply being surrounded by his family. When together, you would find Dennis sitting quietly, observing, and smiling; his smile spoke volumes and expressed all his love.

Fond memories from his childhood, appreciation for the rolling hills and horizon of central Oklahoma and endless work ethic brought him back to Perry, Oklahoma in 1999 to restore a beloved family farm in retirement. This was his home and hobby, where he was most comfortable, and where he wanted to spend his final days. Our family is grateful to know that Dennis passed peacefully in his sleep.

For his immediate family, he was predeceased by Cecil & Hilda Hoffman, Delores Hoffman, Martha & Robert Cowden, Linda Hoffman, and is survived by the children of Martha & Robert Cowden; Leon Hoffman & Family; Patrick & Rebecca Hoffman & Family; Mark Hoffman; Brian, Aimee & Piper Hoffman; Eric, Jennifer & Carter Hoffman; Kurt, Erin & Charlee Hoffman, and many beloved cousins and family friends.

Memorial Services will begin at 10AM on Tuesday, September 6, 2022 at the St. Rose of Lima, Catholic Church – Perry, Oklahoma and conclude at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Cemetery in Perry, Oklahoma. All are welcome.

In recognition of Dennis’ lifelong commitment to education, the family welcomes donations to establish an endowed scholarship at Oklahoma State University in his memory. Gifts should be made payable to the OSU Foundation and mailed to PO Box 1749 – Stillwater, Oklahoma 74076-1749 or can be made online at osugiving.com (https://secure.osugiving.com/s/giving/annual?dsgt=20-03700). Please note your donation is in memory of Dennis R. Hoffman.

The family requests that all flowers and notes are sent to Trout Funeral Home of Perry, 1408 North 7th Street, Perry, Oklahoma 73077. We invite you to leave a message of condolence, expression of sympathy or share a memory of Dennis at www.troutperry.com.

Pallbearers are Mark Hoffman, Brian Hoffman, Eric Hoffman, Kurt Hoffman, Glenn Cowden, and Tracy Avers. Honorary Pallbearers are Dennis’ classmates of St. Mary’s Catholic School in Ponca City, Oklahoma.

Source: Trout Funeral Home