Fred R. Hoffman, 85 years old of Decatur, Indiana, passed away at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 19, 2007 at his residence. Fred was born on March 17, 1922 in Adams County, Indiana, the son of the late Herman G. Hoffman and the late Francis A. (Smith) Hoffman. He married E. Joan Pape on December 2, 1945 in the Zion Lutheran Church, Decatur, Indiana and she survives. They celebrated 61 years of marriage last December. Fred was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, Decatur; American Legion Post #43; Decatur Moose Lodge #1311; Decatur Bowling Hall of Fame in 1984; and was president of the Decatur Bowling Association in 1963. Fred served his country in the United States Army during World War II in the 30th Infantry, 120th Old Hickory Regiment where he attained the rank of Corporal. Fred served in the Normandy, Northern France Rhineland, Central Europe, and Ardennes Campaigns. Fred retired on June 1, 1982 from PhelpsDodge/Indiana Rod & Wire in Ft. Wayne, Indiana with 35 years of service. Surviving are his wife, E. Joan Hoffman of Decatur, Indiana, son, Daniel T. (Jacklyn K.) Hoffman of Decatur, Indiana, and grandson, Myles F. Hoffman of Decatur, Indiana. Preceding Fred in death were two brothers, John and William Hoffman; and four sisters, Virginia Kaough, Helen McClure, Malinda Hoffman and Margaret Parrish. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, April 23, 2007 in the Zion Lutheran Church with Pastor Scott Bruick officiating. Interment will follow in the Decatur Cemetery, Decatur, Indiana. Military Graveside Services will be conducted by American Legion Color Guard #43 of Adams County. Friends will be received from 12:00 NOON - 5:00 p.m. Sunday, April 22, 2007 in the Zwick and Jahn Funeral Home and one hour prior to the services at the church on Monday. Preferred memorials are to Zion Lutheran Church; American Legion Post #43 Color Guard; or Family Hospice of N E Indiana, located in Berne, Indiana.
