John P. Hoeffler, age 68, died on Saturday, December 26, 2015 at his residence in Wausau, WI, while under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services and surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 25, 1947 to the late John and Bette (Lee) Hoeffler III in Quincy, IL. John attended Merrill High School and continued his education with a college degree in design drafting. He had the honor of being on the Dean’s list. John met and fell in love with Crystal Erickson, and the two exchanged vows on January 15, 1977 at the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in the town of Pine River. She survives.
John worked with design drafting of machinery, working for both Microdesign and Star, Inc. He also owned and operated an upholstery business with his family. Most recently, John was a barber for the residents at Colonial Manor. In his younger years, John enjoyed playing golf and spent time with his kids trying to teach them the game. Along with being outdoors playing golf, John would enjoy other activities such as fishing and boating during the summer months. He loved nature, and would often take long walks through the woods, enjoying its beauty. John was known to play a variety of musical instruments, with his favorite being the keyboard. He was a very talented photographer, capturing special moments in his life. John would find relaxation in drawing and painting. He was always eager to learn new techniques and try new things. John was also a great mechanic, being able to work on and fix most anything! Above all, family was the most important to John – he cherished the time he spent with his children and grandchildren. John loved being around all the children in his family. He was a former member of the Merrill Eagles Club. John was a member of the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in the town of Pine River. He will be sadly missed.
John is survived by his wife: Crystal Hoeffler, daughters: Mary (Scott) Zantow and Cheryl (Mike) Fick, grandchildren: John Axness, Breanna Axness, Devin Zantow, Mellisa Hahn, Rachel Hahn, Kristina Hahn and Zachary Zantow, great grandchildren: Abby, Cindy Lou and Axel, many sisters and brother-in-laws, mother-in-law: Beulah Erickson. John is preceded in death by his parents: John and Bette Hoeffler, son: John Hoeffler V, granddaughter: Cynthia McGee, father-in-law: Robert Erickson and brother-in-law: Mark Erickson.
Funeral services for John will be held on Monday, January 4, 2016 at 3PM at the Waid Funeral Home in Merrill, WI. Rev. Dr. David Faulkner will officiate. Visitation will be held on Monday, January 4, 2016 beginning at 1PM and will continue until the time of the service, also at the funeral home.
Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.