Robert J. "Bob" Hoffman

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bob Hoffman, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor, and community leader, who departed this life on February 7, 2026, at the age of 82. A resident of Grafton, Wisconsin, since 1974, Bob lived a life marked by quiet faith, service, kindness, and a commitment to those around him. 

Born in Milwaukee and raised in West Bend, Bob earned his master’s degree in business from Marquette University. He married the love of his life, Janice, on June 3, 1967, and together they raised three children, Mark, Julie, and Paula. A family man at heart, Bob enjoyed time with his children and grandchildren and was their greatest fan. 

Bob’s impact on the Grafton community will be felt for generations. He was the founder and president of the Grafton Soccer Club in the late 70’s. He went on to coach at the youth, state, and high school levels over the next 20 years, where he shaped the lives of countless young athletes and earned the nickname “Soccer Bob”. In 2011 Bob was inducted into the Milwaukee Kickers Hall of Fame, a testament to his dedication to the sport he loved.

In 2006, he was honored as the Grafton Citizen of the Year for his contributions to education and youth sports. His leadership extended to the establishment of the Grafton Education Foundation in 2009. Bob led the foundation for many years. As of 2025, the foundation has generously allocated over $670,000 to local teachers, fostering an enriching environment for students. A member of the Grafton Lions Club since 2009, Bob received the Birch-Sturm Fellowship Award, recognizing his commitment to service. Bob enjoyed the many friendships he made through the Lions. Especially the Friday morning coffee group.

Bob was a member of the Grafton School Board for 15 years and contributed to the implementation of the STEM program at Grafton High School.

Outside of his many accomplishments, Bob cherished simple pleasures, such as gardening, playing cards, and indulging in dark chocolate. Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Janice; his daughters, Julie (Todd) Elliott, AZ, Paula (Dean) Race-Mantel, Cedarburg; daughter-in-law, Daniella Rosenthal, Whitefish Bay; grandchildren, Evan, Jake, Carter, and Artesa Elliott, Kelsey (Noah) Wilterdink, Tanner Mantel, Luke (Emily) Mantel, Max (Maren) Race, Makenna (Jack) Samse; 5 great-grandchildren; brother, Marvin; brother-in-law, Ken Sosalla; sister-in-law, Terri Sosalla.

Bob was preceded in death by his son, Mark Hoffman; parents, John and Clara Hoffman; father/mother-in-law, Allie and Martha Sosalla; sister/brother-in-law, Janet and Chuck Warner; brother-in-law, Michael Sosalla; son-in-law, Chuck Race; and grandsons, Chase and Karsten.

Bob left a legacy of kindness and compassion that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. He was a listener, a steady presence, and always approached life with gentleness and warmth. In addition to family, Bob valued the friendships he made along the way, especially those with Grafton friends, high school friends, and many cousins.

The family invites you to join them in remembering Bob. Services will be held on Friday February 20th at St. Joseph Church in Grafton where Bob was an active member for 52 years. Visitation 11:00 – 12:45, eulogy at 12:50, mass at 1:00. Cake and fellowship to follow. Memorials can be made to the Grafton Education Foundation or the Grafton Lions Club.

Plopper Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.