David J. Hoffer

“There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone, the light remains.” – Unknown

David Jeffrey Hoffer was one of those people. Everyone who had the honor of knowing Dave, in any capacity , from his 27-year career teaching math, science, and technology to students across Rhode Island, to his strong presence in the local lifeguarding community, to those who were blessed to call him family or friend, can attest to the amazing light that he carried and shared so abundantly.

Dave was the kind of person who never met a stranger. Who sits down at a restaurant and immediately asks the server how their day is going- and genuinely wants to know. Who finds out that a friend’s child needs help with their math, and calls unasked to offer tutoring on a weekend, no strings attached. Dave was adamant about pulling over for every kid’s lemonade stand and was unable to walk by any dog on the street without stopping to give them ear scratches. He gave freely of his time and energy in every aspect of his life – from teaching, to lifeguarding, to supporting his friends and family. The eternal optimist, he saw potential in every grey morning to turn into a beach day.

The health challenges that Dave faced later in life were of the caliber that would have defeated many people much sooner. And yet he faced every single moment with courage and grace. Every hospital worker, from the CNA to the surgeon, heard him say “Thank you for being part of my recovery.” He refused to be defined by cancer but instead found ways to persevere and triumph throughout his journey. His zeal for life never wavered.

Dave’s life was a lesson in humility, bravery, steadfastness, and what it means to be a true friend. He was a fun, adventurous father, an adoring husband, a loyal son and brother, and the most devoted dog-dad to his best buddy Jonah. Above all, Dave was kind. And his strongest legacy is the passing on of that gift of light that shone so brightly in him. If we can all carry some of that light in us and strive to pass it on in every word and action, it will multiply exponentially and continue to illuminate the world long after we have all passed on.

David leaves behind his wife Seychelle, children Joshua, Alastair, and Rowan, mother Ellen McKenna, sister and brother-in-law Jill and Peter LePage, brother and sister-in-law Mark and Ellie Hoffer, and many extended family.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Dave’s name to Summer Safe Ocean State. Donations may be made online at www.summersafeoceanstate.org, or mail checks to Summer Safe Ocean State L3C, 111 South Bay Drive, Narragansett, RI 02882.