FALL RIVER… Charles E. Hoffman, 73, of Fall River died Thursday, January 26, 2012 at St. Anne’s Hospital. He was the husband of Joyce M. (Vianna) Hoffman. He was born in Stockton, Kansas a son of the late Elton and Winifred Hoffman and had lived in Fall River since 1976. He was a 21 year veteran of the United States Marine Corps retiring at the rank of Gunnery Sargent known as Papa-San. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam and achieved the National Defense Service Medal, RVN Cross of Gallantry w/palm, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal a/4*, Vietnam Service Medal w/11*, Pistol Marksmanship Badge, Navy Commendation Medal w/combat “V”, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Rifle Sharpshooter Badge and many awards. He skillfully trained his men into an effective fighting force and led them into hundreds of combat patrols. He was also instrumental in discovering enemy caches containing large quantities of food, clothing, weapons and ammunition. He obtained valuable information concerning enemy activities which resulted in a reduction of the influence of the Viet Cong infrastructure and contributed significantly to close relations between the Marines and the Vietnamese. He earned the respect of all who served with him and upheld the finest traditions of the Marine Corps.
He worked at Duro Industries for 27 years until he retired. He was known to his co-workers as Charlie.
Mr. Hoffman loved to watch the Patriots, Boston Red Sox, Golf, Track and Field, and playing the Saxophone. He was an avid book reader and loved his coffee (black). He also loved to play whiffle ball, take nature hikes, cribbage, and poker-let it ride. He also loved to see, play, and talk to his grandchildren. His favorite car was the 1957 Chevy.
Survivors include his wife and children Charles (Danine) Imboden of Salt Lake City, UT, Melissa (Robert) Terra of Somerset, Eric (Deanna) Hoffman of Fall River,brother to Peggy (Ed) Ashenbrenner of Truth or Consequence, New Mexico, grandfather to Spencer,Keijah, Hannah,Daneah,Tiffany, Shane, Rachael, Jared, Ethan, Amber, Alexis, several nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Robert Dunahugh.
Services to which relatives and friends are invited will be held Tuesday at 11AM at the SOUTH COAST FUNERAL HOME, 1555 Pleasant Street, Fall River. Calling hours will be Monday 5 – 8 PM. Interment will be in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne Massachusetts.