James Raymond Hofmann was born on June 7, 1935, in Chehalis, Washington, and grew up in nearby Winlock. He carried a lifelong love for the Pacific Northwest and particularly the smell of pine trees, but he had a reverence for all of the natural world.

Jim served four years in the United States Navy, working in communications. After completing his military service, he began a career in radio and television, starting as a disc jockey and weatherman known for his distinctive voice. He found a natural home in
broadcasting and behind-the-scenes audio and technical work. He spent most of his career at KIRO TV in Seattle, and then worked at GTE before retiring.

Jim married Shirley Gray in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and together they made their home in the Seattle area, where they lived until retirement. After Shirley's passing in 1998, Jim married Francine Jarman. They shared a life of faith and service in Springville, Utah, including serving a mission together for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Jim had endless curiosity. He loved electronics, mechanics, technology, motorcycles, and trains on one hand, and cats, spring bulbs, newspaper comics, and gardening on the other.  A lifelong learner and builder, his DIY skills and work ethic were matched with a quirky sense of humor. His love of stories was a gift he passed on to his children and grandchildren, always taking time to read to them.

His heart was as open as his mind was sharp. Jim accepted people as they were. He gave rides to strangers, helped people in need, and offered his time. He had a particular soft spot for the vulnerable and the overlooked.

Service and hard work were defining threads throughout Jim's life. Through his amateur radio work, he trained for emergency response and volunteered in various ways from logistics for parades to testing the water quality in Hobble Creek to reading for the blind. He was deeply committed to Jesus Christ and served selflessly for decades in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He approached his church callings and responsibilities with absolute dedication.

Jim was the epitome of humility, hard work, loyalty, and commitment. He did not need recognition to do what was right, because that's just who he was. Through his example, he taught his family the value of curiosity, hard work, commitment, and faith.

Jim is survived by his daughters, Sherri Haab (Dan) and Laura Newey (Lance); nine grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and his siblings, Margaret Hofmann Chambers (Charles) and George Hofmann (Margaret).

Services will be held on Tuesday, October 27th at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2379 E 1100 S, Springville, UT 84663 . Viewing from 10:00 – 10:45 am, Service from 11:00 – 12:00pm, Burial at Springville Evergreen Cemetery.