James George Hoffner, 63, passed peacefully, holding hands with his family, into the loving arms of his Savior after a courageous and unwavering battle with bulbar ALS.
Jim was born on August 21, 1963, in Ashland, Wisconsin, to Sebastian and Patricia (Alger) Hoffner of Esmond, North Dakota.
On April 17, 2019, Jim married the love of his life, Melissa “Missy” (Breeden) Hoffner, in a private ceremony. Together, they shared nearly a decade of extraordinary love, unwavering devotion, and steadfast commitment through sickness and health. They were rarely apart, choosing to spend every moment they could together. Whether riding motorcycles across the country, traveling to new places, enjoying seafood, or simply sitting side by side, they built a life filled with laughter, adventure, friendship, and unconditional love. Their marriage was a beautiful testament to enduring love, faith, and the sacred vows they made before God.
Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and loyal friend. He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Sara (KJ) Peterson of Fargo, North Dakota; Tara Hoffner of Devils Lake, North Dakota; Haley (Andrew) Ellefson of Hawley, Minnesota; and Samantha (Alex) Rushing of Brandon, Minnesota. He also leaves behind Daniel (Isabel) Fish, USN, and Landon Fish of Collinsville, Illinois.
He was preceded in death by his infant son, Cassidy James Hoffner, who is buried at Lodi Cemetery in California, as well as his parents.
Nothing brought Jim greater joy than his family. He deeply loved his grandchildren-Hunter Hoffner of Fargo; Wyatt Hoffner, USMC; Kaiden “KK” Peterson of Fargo; Graham Ellefson; and Silvia Rushing. Each held a special place in his heart. He treasured every opportunity to watch them grow and saved every photo of them.
Jim is also survived by his beloved brother, Fabian (Jaye) Hoffner of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, and his sister, Siobhan Hoffner Deppa of Fargo, North Dakota.
Jim lived life with purpose, loyalty, and determination. As a young boy, he dreamed of being a cowboy. He became an accomplished industrial painter and superintendent with Thomas Industrial Coatings of Pevely, Missouri, where he earned the respect of coworkers through his unmatched work ethic, leadership, and integrity. A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, Jim was the president of the East St. Louis Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, leading the East St. Louis charter until his diagnosis of bulbar ALS made it necessary for him to step down earlier this year.
Those who knew Jim knew a man of unwavering character. He believed a man’s word mattered. He worked hard, loved deeply, and never hesitated to help someone in need. He quietly sacrificed for those he loved, always willing to go the extra mile without expecting anything in return. His loyalty never wavered, his generosity knew no bounds, and his kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was a great friend to all.
Jim adored his faithful companions, Buddy James and Archie, who remained faithfully by his side throughout his illness. He also had a cat, Minnie, whom he despised.
Above every title he held and every accomplishment he achieved, Jim considered his greatest identity to be that of a faithful Catholic and devoted follower of Jesus Christ. His faith anchored him throughout life’s joys and sustained him through its greatest trials. He was a member of St. Mary’s Church in Alton and loved Masses led by Father Jorge.
Jim met bulbar ALS with extraordinary courage, relentless determination, and unwavering hope. He refused to surrender to the disease, pursuing every possible avenue in his fight-not only for himself, but for the people he loved. Though ALS ultimately claimed his earthly life, it never conquered his spirit, his faith, or his unyielding will to live. His courage throughout his journey became one of the greatest testimonies of his character, inspiring all who witnessed his remarkable strength.
Jim leaves behind a legacy of faith, courage, integrity, loyalty, perseverance, compassion, and unconditional love. Though his earthly journey has ended, the love he shared and the lives he touched will continue to echo through generations. He will be profoundly missed, forever cherished, and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Metro East Humane Society, Overnight OWLS Warming Shelter, directly to individuals and families courageously battling ALS-particularly those pursuing complementary and alternative therapies that often receive little financial support-or Team Gleason.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day-and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” – 2 Timothy 4:7-8
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 2 pm until time of service at 5 pm, at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. Jack Sims will officiate.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
