04/08/2026
Gerald J. Hoffmeister
Gerald “Papa” Hoffmeister – affectionately known to some as “Bear” – was a man who made people feel seen. His warmth, kindness, and quiet generosity left a lasting imprint on everyone lucky enough to know him. From his dear family to any grocery store clerk or bank teller he encountered, everyone felt special in his presence.
Born on September 6, 1933, in Milwaukee to Margaret and Alfred, Jerry spent a long and beautiful life rooted in Wisconsin. He raised three children—Marce, Mark, and Steve—with the love of his life, Cynthia. His imprint can be found across the state in the countless homes he built, after founding Hoffmeister Builders. Yet more than anything, Jerry built a life through how he showed up—for his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his community at large. In 1989, he and Cynthia settled into a quaint home in Hartland, where they lived out the rest of their lives together.
Jerry spent countless afternoons on the golf course, proudly achieving two hole-in-ones in his lifetime. On any given evening, you might find him with a Manhattan in hand, deeply focused on a game of chess with one of his sons or grandchildren. He cherished weekends away in Iola hunting with his son and friends, and summers up at the Waupaca lake house with his family. He loved country western music and took great care in tending to the wildlife in his backyard, whom he endearingly referred to as his “pets.”
Jerry remained active and full of life all the way to the end. At 92 years old, he was still driving, taking walks in the park, and mowing his own lawn. He often reminded us that “if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it,” and he truly lived by this philosophy. To say that Jerry was remarkable for his age is an understatement.
A proud and devoted Catholic, Jerry’s faith was a central pillar in his life. His church community and family of faith brought him deep comfort and belonging.
Jerry had a rare way of making people feel as though they mattered deeply—because to him, they did. Whether through a warm smile, a listening ear, or a simple moment of presence, he carried a quiet light that drew people in. He often filled a room with laughter, sometimes unraveling at the punchline of his own jokes. It was hard not to smile around Jerry; his bright essence was infectious. He was a soothing balm to an aching wound, a candle in the dark, a true ray of sunshine.
Jerry was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and steady anchor to his family. He is survived by his sons, Steve and Mark, as well as seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cynthia, and daughter, Marce. Jerry passed peacefully in his sleep on April 4, 2026.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, at St. Teresa Catholic Church in North Lake (W314 N7462 State Road 83, Hartland), followed by a Mass, burial, and luncheon. The Mass may be viewed live on St. Teresa of Calcutta’s website: https://www.stteresaofcalcutta.org/. Click on the live stream tab.
In lieu of flowers, we invite you to take someone you love out to lunch or call on an old friend in Jerry’s honor. Alternatively, consider making a donation to Father Gene’s Help Center.
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