Craig C. Hoffman, age 86, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away on March 22, 2026. Born on October 13, 1939, in Shawano, Wisconsin, he was the son of the late Lawrence and Erma Hoffman.
He spent his early years in Gresham, Wisconsin, where he developed the values of faith, dedication, and community that would guide him throughout his life.
Craig pursued his education with a strong commitment to learning and service. He graduated from Concordia Lutheran High School in Seward, Nebraska, and continued his studies at Concordia Teachers College in Seward.
Later, he earned a master’s degree in education from Northern Illinois University. His academic journey reflected his passion for teaching and his desire to positively influence the lives of others.
Throughout his professional career, Craig devoted many years to education as a physical education teacher at Concordia Lutheran High School in Fort Wayne.
He was deeply respected by students and colleagues alike for his encouragement, discipline, and steady leadership. In addition to teaching, he served as a coach for both track and cross country teams.
One of the highlights of his coaching career came in 1983 when he led the girls’ cross country team to the school’s first state championship.
His contributions to the school community were recognized in 2012 when he was inducted into the Concordia Lutheran High School Athletic Hall of Fame.
Craig’s life was also defined by his enduring marriage and devotion to family. He met his wife, Janice Rieke, during his early years as a teacher, and the two were married on August 13, 1966.
Their marriage spanned nearly six decades and was built on mutual love, respect, and shared faith. Together, they raised three sons and created a close and supportive family environment.
Beyond his professional and family life, Craig enjoyed a wide range of personal interests. He appreciated the outdoors and spent time gardening, canoeing, deer hunting, and traveling.
He was also known to enjoy reading, particularly on topics related to the Civil War.
In his leisure time, he followed football, especially Green Bay Packers games, and enjoyed playing pinochle with friends and family. His active lifestyle and curiosity about the world reflected his appreciation for both nature and companionship.
Craig was a faithful member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, where he participated actively in the life of the congregation.
His faith played a central role in his daily life and in the way he approached relationships, work, and service to others.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Jan Hoffman, and their three sons, Lance Hoffman and his wife Linda, Eric Hoffman and his wife Michelle, and Trent Hoffman and his wife Lisa.
He is also survived by seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, his sisters Karen Craig and Deborah Pieper, and her husband John, along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Penny Clafflin.
Visitation will be held at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne on April 8, 2026, from 3 in the afternoon until 7 in the evening, and again on April 9 from 10 until 11 in the morning.
A funeral service will follow at 11 in the morning on April 9 at the same location, with burial to take place at St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Concordia Lutheran High School, Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, or St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.
Craig Hoffman will be remembered for his lifelong dedication to education, his strong faith, and his commitment to family and community.
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