Barbara R. (Bickel) Hoffman

Barbara R. Hoffman, age 94, passed away on September 26, 2023, at Hellenic Senior Living Center in Mishawaka.  Barb was born April 9, 1929, in South Bend, Indiana to the late Charles and Gertrude (Palmer) Bickel and was a graduate of Mishawaka High School, class of 1947.  On December 23, 1949, she married Russell Hoffman.  In 1976, the Hoffmans moved to Texas where they lived and worked in Irving and Seguin until 1989 before taking a well-deserved retirement and moving back to South Bend. Barb and Russell celebrated 58 years of marriage before his passing in January of 2008.

Barb is survived by her sons Mark (Jill) Hoffman of Cassopolis, Michigan and Paul (Edna) Hoffman of Danbury, Connecticut.  Surviving as well is her brother David (Terrie) Bickel of Silver Lake, Ohio, her grandchildren David (Amy Lybe) Hoffman and John Hoffman, her grandchildren Chantel (Luciano) Paschoalini and her step grandson Adrian Vanderbosch and her great-granddaughter Juliana (Ryan) Laskowski. She was preceded in death by her siblings Charles Bickel and Elsie Ramsey.

Visitation will be held from 10am-12pm Thursday, October 5, 2023, at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home (formerly Goethals and Wells) in Mishawaka.  Immediately following visitation, Pastor Joyce Kuhn of the First United Methodist Church of Mishawaka will officiate Barb’s funeral service.  Barb will be laid to rest beside her husband Russell in Fairview Cemetery.

Barb was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church of Mishawaka, where she served faithfully as a greeter on Sunday mornings, creating a welcome atmosphere for those attending. Her commitment extended beyond the church walls as she volunteered to organize and assist with funeral luncheons for grieving families of the church, offering solace and support during difficult times. She was an avid reader and found great joy in the world of books. Barb also loved gathering with her friends and family to enjoy playing card games, with King's Corner and Quiddler being among her favorites.

Barb was employed as a legal secretary in Mishawaka for many years before she and Russ began the new chapter of their lives in Irving, Texas. There, she served as an executive secretary for T.H.E. Travel, showcasing her organizational skills and commitment to excellence. Upon her retirement, Barb selflessly cared for numerous family members who needed daily assistance. Her dedication to the well-being of others was a true reflection of her character.

Family meant everything to Barb, and she cherished the moments spent with her sons, Mark and Paul, as well as her grandchildren and siblings. Whether it was a simple family gathering or a special celebration, Barb's love and warmth radiated, creating lasting memories for all who were fortunate enough to be a part of her life.