Donald E. Hoffman - Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Homes & Crematory

Donald E. Hoffman

March 11, 1930 - August 19, 2021

Donald E. Hoffman, age 91, of Newark, DE, passed away on Thursday, August 19, 2021 surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Hagerstown, MD on March 11, 1930, he was a son of the late Guy E. and Mary (Finniff) Hoffman.

Donald attended high school in Hagerstown, MD, and proudly served as the valedictorian of his graduating class in 1948. After high school, he attended Hagerstown Junior College and Franklin and Marshall College where he graduated with his Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry. His academic achievements earned him a place in the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society in 1952. Donald married his childhood sweetheart, Dolores F. Kennedy, on August 29, 1953. He continued his education after marrying Dolores, earning his Master of Science from University of Maryland in 1955 and his PhD in Chemistry from the University of Delaware in 1960. Donald worked as a research chemist in the Textile Fibers Department at the DuPont Company for 33 years, retiring in 1993.

During his time at DuPont, he earned several research awards and held 2 co-author patents. Donald was a member of the American Chemical Society. Strong in his faith, he was a member at White Clay Creek Presbyterian Church where he served as elder, member of the Worship Committee, Chancel Choir, Handbell Choir, and helped coordinate various activities for the church.

In addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Dolores F. Hoffman. He is survived by his children, Bryan E. Hoffman (James Lonsdale) of Philadelphia, PA and Susan H. Brooks (Daniel) of Kennett Square, PA.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 6 pm until 8 pm on Wednesday, August 25, 2021 at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE.  A second visitation will be held from 10 am until 11 am on Thursday, August 26, 2021, at White Clay Creek Presbyterian Church, 15 Polly Drummond Hill Road, Newark, DE 19711, where a funeral service will begin at 11 am.  Interment will follow in the adjoining cemetery. Face coverings will be required for all those in attendance not immunized with the COVID-19 vaccine per the Governor of Delaware.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Donald’s memory to White Clay Creek Presbyterian Church at the address listed above.

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9 Condolences for Donald E. Hoffman

  • Don (and his beloved Dolores) were strong Christians who gave to WCCPC in so many ways. I have years of memories I hold in my heart. They are together again in God’s arms.
    I pray for peace and comfort for Sue, Dan, Bryan. You are in my thoughts.

  • Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your Dad, Bryan. Though I never met him, I am sure he will be missed by many.

  • My deepest condolences on the loss of a beautiful soul He will be miss greatly , my prayers for the family and friends during this difficult time 🙏🏻

  • My love and thoughts are with you at this tender time. I am so sorry for the loss of your father. What a beautiful, full and loving life. May you feel comfort in the blessings he continues to share.

  • Bryan, Jim,Susan & Dan,
    My sympathy on the passing of your beloved Dad. I like to imagine Dolores waiting for him for conversation, cocktails & canapés!
    It is my loss that I never knew of his work accomplishments. But my gain to know what fine children he loved, nurtured & grew.
    I hope you find comfort in your memories of your Dad and your family.
    Love,
    Charlie Lenger

  • My deepest condolences and prayers for you! How fortunate you were there. See you soon

  • He was a Great Man with a Giant hart. Truly loved by All.
    My thoughts and Prayers to you All.

  • Our deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved father, Bryan and Susan. We were honored to have met him and witnessed what a warm and loving soul he was. We hope your fond memories of him help you smile through the tears. You are in our warmest thoughts and prayers during this time. Love, Mike and Alexa

  • So sorry to hear of Don’s passing. Many fond memories of our time together at WCCPC, and his wonderful quiet sense of humor during our time in the Chancel Choir and on Session. He was a friend, and a part of my spiritual/faith journey. He will be greatly missed.

    My prayers for comfort and condolences for Susan & Dan and Bryan & Jim.