Hoffman, George 1895 - 1987

HOFFMAN, HARKNESS, MOCONAHIE

Posted By: Doris Hoffman, Volunteer (email)
Date: 12/9/2010 at 22:43:50

Services held for last Akron WW I veteran. George E Hoffman, 92, Akron, died Monday (Sept. 14, 1987) in the Akron City Convalescent Care Center. Services were held Thursday in Schroeder funeral home in Akron. Rev. Norman McCallum officiated. Military graveside services were conducted by Hoschler American Legion Post #186 of Akron. Pallbearers were Dennis Hultgren, Roger Frerichs, Wayne Sheveland, Richard Packard, Charles Reich, and Norbert Isert.

Mr Hoffman was born Aug. 19, 1895, to Frank and Ruth Hoffman at Akron, Iowa. He married Clara E McConahie in September of 1920. The couple farmed in the Akron area. Mrs Hoffman died in 1927.

Mr Hoffman was a veteran of World War I, having served in France in 1918, with the Balloon Observation Corps. Balloons were used for artillery and mortar observation posts. When our army was advancing, the ground crew 'walked' the balloon forward to a new position. Just behind the front lines. It was very dangerous work for brave young men. We give special honor to the memory of Gearge Hoffman. He was young and brave, willing and ready to serve his country. He served with 1,400,000 fellow Americans in France and Germany. He returned to Akron with 200 other Akron veterans of World War I. These veterans organized the American Legion here. All of them are remembered for their bravery and also for their good deeds, teaching us petriotism, and appreciation for what we have here. A 50-year member of Hoschler American Legion post 186, and a member of the VFW post #915 in Elk Point.

Surviviors include a daughter, Mrs Leonard (Mildred) Swanson of Plain City, Ohio; two sons: Lester of Yreka, Ca, and Gearge E. Jr., of Lewiston, Idaho; one sister Cecelia Hunnel of Santa Ana, CA; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Note: His mother's maiden name was Harkness.