Thomas G. Hoffman

Resident of Brentwood

August 10, 1953 --- June 15, 2014

Thomas Gregory Hoffman passed away, unexpectedly, on Sunday, June 15. His loss has left a giant void in the hearts of those that knew him, yet we are all better people for having known and loved him.

Tom (or Greg, as some knew him) was born in Leonardtown, Maryland, but moved to Northern California with his family when he was young. He graduated from College Park High School in Pleasant Hill, and obtained a degree in Accounting from Cal State Hayward in 1977. Shortly after graduating from college, he went to work for Chevron, a company with which he would spend his entire 37 year career. His dedicated work ethic ensured his steady rise through the company ranks to the position of a senior financial manager. Tom’s commitment to his work and his generous nature made him a valued friend and mentor to countless colleagues worldwide.

Though Tom was very successful in his career, it was his life outside of work that really defined him. Tom was a man of many interests and talents. Many kids in the community first came to know him as “Coach Hoffman,” and learned the motor skills and sportsmanship required for soccer and pee-wee baseball under his guiding hand. His arrival in California shortly before the Oakland A’s dynasty years in the early 1970’s ensured that he would bleed green and gold for life, and he never gave up hope that “this year could be the year” for the team to regain its former glory. Tom’s annual Christmas light display was local legend, with many people lining up in their cars to catch a glimpse--- even PG&E will be mourning his passing as they lose the annual December bump in revenue that this display generated. Tom was also a well-known woodworker and handyman; the homes of many of his friends and family members boast a Tom Hoffman original creation, which might include one of his trademark fireplace mantles. He was a born socializer, always the life of the party, and his signature frozen margaritas could liven up even the quietest of party guests. Music was his passion, both in listening and in playing, and over 20 worthy guitars found a loving adopted home with Tom. Many of his free moments were spent in his guitar room, strumming and singing along to some of his favorite bands. The traits he will be remembered for the most are his kindness and boundless generosity, which meant that no one else could ever pick up a restaurant tab when he was around, no matter how hard they tried.

Above all, Family was Tom’s major motivating force and inspiration. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 40 years, Anita, and their four children---Joshua (and his wife Susan), Justin, Bryn, and Brett. He is also survived by four sisters, four brothers, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, as well as innumerable friends. He will be sorely missed by all of us who knew him and knew what it was like to be on the receiving end of one of his hearty laughs and full-bodied smiles.

Private memorial services will be held for family members. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting the Mendocino Music Festival (www.mendocinomusic.org), an event that Tom became involved with in the last few years and that provided him with the thrill of his life when his favorite band, Poco, agreed to perform on its stages.