Raymond M. Hoffman

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Raymond Merle Hoffman, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and public servant, on May 20, 2026, at the age of 81. Raymond was born on June 24, 1944, to Betty and Glen Hoffman, who preceded him in death. He grew up in Flat Rock, Michigan, where he graduated from Flat Rock High School and later attended Madonna College. A proud patriot, Raymond served his country in the United States Navy from 1962 to 1965. On October 12, 1967, he married the love of his life, Cynthia Hoffman, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Waltz, Michigan. Together, they built a life and raised their three children in Flat Rock. Raymond was a devoted father to his children: Glen Hoffman, married to Tonya Hoffman; the late Raymond Hoffman, who passed away in 2017, and his wife Pamela Hoffman; and Rachelle Queen, married to Ron Queen. He found endless joy in supporting and celebrating their achievements, teaching life lessons, and being an unwavering source of love and guidance. Raymond dedicated his professional life to public service. He began his career with the Flat Rock Police Department in 1965 as a uniformed officer and was promoted to Chief of Police in 1980. Over the next 14 years, he served the community with unwavering commitment until his retirement in 1994. Retirement brought a move to Kalkaska, Michigan, for a quieter life. However, his dedication to law enforcement was unshakable, and he continued to serve with the Kalkaska County Sheriff’s Department until 2009. Raymond loved sports and an active lifestyle. In his younger days, he enjoyed bowling, golfing, running, and waterskiing. As his family grew, his passion shifted to supporting the activities of his children and grandchildren. Whether in the stands or on the sidelines, he was their biggest cheerleader. He also gave generously to his community, serving on numerous boards and committees, including the Flat Rock School Board, Kiwanis, Cold Spring Township Supervisor, Kalkaska Fire Board, and the Kalkaska Hospital Board. Raymond is lovingly remembered by his wife of nearly 59 years, Cynthia Hoffman; their children, Glen Hoffman (Tonya), the late Raymond Hoffman (Pamela), and Rachelle Queen (Ron); his grandchildren, Chase, Lauren, Arika, Lanae, Nick, and Logan; and great-grandchildren, Ryker, Evaliah, River, Belle, and Kai. He also leaves behind his sister, Becky Davis (Bob); in-laws Diane Brown (Al Brown, deceased), John and Elaine Mills; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. He is preceded in death by his brothers, Ronald and Robert Hoffman, and in-laws Jean McLaughlin and Al Brown. A celebration of Raymond's life will take place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2470 Beebe Rd, Kalkaska, MI. Family will welcome friends at 10:00 AM, with visitation beginning at 11:00 AM. A service will follow at 3:00 PM with committal at Coldsprings Township Cemetery. A meal will be served at the church following the committal service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Safe Harbor of Allegan, MI, or St. Paul Lutheran Church, Kalkaska, MI. Raymond Merle Hoffman leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering dedication to his family, community, and country. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Raymond M. Hoffman

June 24, 1944 - May 20, 2026