Miles Eugene Hoffman, a cherished member of the Silver Lake, Indiana community, passed away at the age of 81 on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. His life, rich in community involvement, dedication to family, and passion for the simpler pleasures of life, leaves a lasting legacy.
Who Was Miles Eugene Hoffman?
Born on December 16, 1941, in Warsaw, Indiana, to Howard and Mary (Whetstone) Hoffman, Miles grew up on a farm and embodied the values of hard work and perseverance. He graduated from Silver Lake High School in 1960, where he shone as a star player on the basketball team, the “Ramblers”.
What Were the Highlights of Miles’s Early Life and Education?
Miles’s early life on a farm and his education at Silver Lake High School were foundational to his character. His involvement in the basketball team showcased his teamwork and competitive spirit, traits that would follow him throughout his life.
How Did Miles Contribute to His Community?
Miles’s commitment to his community was unwavering. He spent 42 years as a project supervisor with the Indiana Department of Transportation’s Fort Wayne District before retiring in 2003, having made an outstanding impactful contribution to regional infrastructure and development. His dedication and work ethic will long be remembered and revered.
What Were Miles’s Personal Interests and Hobbies?
An avid collector of John Deere tractors, Miles found joy in simple pleasures. He was known for his love of playing euchre, enjoying his coffee club meetings, and attending his children and grandchildren’s sporting events. His passion for yard mowing and being a perfectionist in everything he did were traits that endeared him to many.
Who Were the Important People in Miles’s Life?
Miles’s life was enriched by his loving family and friends. He married Pat Kuhn on June 15, 1963, in Akron, Indiana, and together they were pillars of the Silver Lake community. He leaves behind his beloved wife Pat, son Troy and daughter-in-law Jessica as well as five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Additionally, his enduring ties to classmates that met regularly reflect the close connections they shared throughout life.
What Losses Did Miles Face in His Lifetime?
The passing of his parents and his son, Brent Hoffman, in 2019, were profound losses in Miles’s life. These moments of grief, however, also highlighted the strength and resilience with which he faced life’s challenges.
How Will Miles Be Remembered by His Community?
Miles’s legacy in the Silver Lake community is marked by his dedication to his work, his involvement in the Beaver Dam Community Church, and his active participation in community events. His friendly demeanor, willingness to engage in a game of euchre, and his presence at local gatherings will be fondly remembered.
What Arrangements Were Made for Miles’s Funeral?
A visitation for Miles will be held on Sunday, September 17, 2023, at the Earl-Love Funeral Home in Akron, Indiana. The funeral service, to be officiated by Rev. Robert Jarboe and Pastor Butch Troke, is scheduled for the following day, with burial at the Akron IOOF Cemetery. These arrangements provide an opportunity for the community to come together to honor his memory.
How Can the Community Honor Miles’s Memory?
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to “Wheels on Fire” at the Beaver Dam Community Church. This gesture not only honors Miles’s memory but also supports a cause that was close to his heart, continuing his legacy of community involvement and caring.
Miles Eugene Hoffman lived an extraordinary life of community service, familial devotion and simple joys that has left an indelible impact upon those he knew in Silver Lake and beyond. While mourning his passing, they celebrate an individual whose work and community involvement left a legacy that will live on for many.
