Rev. Alfred J. Hofler

Reverend Alfred J. Hofler, of Port Jefferson, NY, passed away on December 10, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on May 19, 1937, in Manhattan, NY, Alfred lived a life dedicated to faith, family, and service.

Alfred was the beloved husband of Karen, his devoted partner of 62 years. Together, they built a loving family and shared a passion for traveling. He was the cherished father of Christopher (Nancy), Roxanne Hofler, and Kent, and the proud grandfather of Morgan and Clayton, who brought him immense joy.

A lifelong servant of his community, Alfred dedicated 30 years of his career as a social worker with Catholic Charities. In addition to his social work, he was a gifted and compassionate pastor. He was the founding pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in East Moriches, serving from 1962 to 1969. Before that, he served as interim pastor at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Middle Island from 1961 to 1962. Alfred went on to serve as pastor of Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church in East Setauket from 1977 until his retirement in 2018.

Alfred was a man of many talents and hobbies. A skilled woodcarver, he was known for his intricate carvings of ducks, swans, fish, and wildlife. He was an avid reader and history enthusiast, loved gardening, fishing, and most of all, spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Birthday celebrations were a special tradition, and no party was complete without a Carvel Fudgy the Whale ice cream cake, a favorite he shared with his grandchildren.

Reverend Hofler will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, and unwavering devotion to his family, faith, and community.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 16, 2024, from 4 to 7 PM at O.B. Davis Funeral Home, 4839 Nesconset Highway, Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776. A funeral service will take place on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 10 AM at Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church, 465 Pond Path, East Setauket, NY 11733. Interment will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery, Liberty Avenue, Port Jefferson, NY 11777.

His legacy of love and service will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.