Irene Kay Hoffman

Irene Kay (Dusek) Hoffman, age 79, passed away October 24, 2023, surrounded by loving family. She was born March 26, 1944, in Valparaiso, Indiana, the daughter of Frank Dusek and Vera (Jensen) Dusek. Irene was preceded in death by her husband of more than 56 years, George Hoffman, Jr. She is survived by her three children, Dawn (Kevin) VanderMolen, Jay (Camilla) Hoffman, and Mike (Melanie) Hoffman, honorary daughter, Sheila (Jim) Shields, seven grandchildren, Jamie (Chris) Boehl, Derek VanderMolen, Jasen VanderMolen, Gabrielle Hoffman, Sarah, Hoffman, Justin Hoffman, and Matthew Hoffman, as well as by her brother Ron (Linda) Dusek. Irene also was preceded in death by her sisters, Rose (Dusek) Ambers and Jerri (Dusek) Myers. After growing up in the Kouts area, Irene attended and graduated from Indianapolis Beauty College and December 14, 1963, she married George Hoffman, Jr., in DeMotte. Irene instilled the love of music and the pursuit of fun in her children and grandchildren. She worked as a study hall supervisor at Kankakee Valley High School for more than a decade where she entertained countless students, teachers, administrators, and co-workers with her sharp and practical wit and wisdom. Irene was never accused of being quiet, shy, or fearful of offering her unvarnished thoughts with radical candor – even if unsolicited. Her lasting legacy will be her fierce love for and loyalty to her family and friends. Snow, sleet, wind, or rain, did not stop Irene and George from attending innumerous school and sporting events for their grandchildren. Irene always brought laughter and liveliness to family gatherings with her blunt take on all manner of issues, topics, and events. A calling of family and friends will be held October 27, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Jackson Funeral Service in DeMotte, followed by a funeral service (also at Jackson Funeral Service), and then an interment at Holland Cemetery, DeMotte. Following the graveside services, a luncheon will be provided at First Church in Wheatfield. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations be made to a charity of choice, but suggests the American Cancer Society.

Irene Kay Hoffman

March 26, 1944 - October 24, 2023