Norman Hoffman

Norman Hoffman passed away peacefully on August 2, 2024 at the age of 80 after a long battle with cancer. He is survived by his sister, Carolyn Benkowitz (Ed), his daughter, Nicole (Polyanna), and son Nathan (Theresa) along with his 3 beautiful granddaughters, Eleanor, Malu and Emersyn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nathan and Evelyn Hoffman and his brother, Lawrence (“Larry”). Born in the Bronx, NY, Norman grew up in Lakewood, NJ. In 1960, he moved to California where he attended Sonoma State College, earning a degree in English Literature. After graduating, he served time with the Army as an Army Intelligence Investigator where he attained the classification of rifle sharpshooter. Norman was a chef at heart, a trait he inherited from his father. He worked managing catering departments in hotels and, after many years, opened his own catering business. Norman was an “uncle” to many and had a way with people, making them feel comfortable around him. Even with a language barrier, he was able to connect with the Brazilian and German families and friends of his daughters-in-law. Norman was many things: a devoted brother, a loving father, a doting “Grandpa” and was incredibly kind. He was a dependable and trustworthy friend, a sci-fi nerd, a veteran, a Giants fan (football and baseball!), a foodie and excellent cook, a fierce believer in equal rights and protecting the environment, a fighter to the end and so much more. Norman often said, “ My family is a never-ending source of joy.” That was an absolute truth, and they knew that through his expressions of love, support and encouragement. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Wounded Warrior Project (bit.ly/3yiIXUe) and/or World Central Kitchen (https://wck.org)