Hoffman Jr., Henry J

Henry J. Hoffman Jr

August 9, 2024 at the age of 76

Henry J. Hoffman Jr., 76, known to his friends and family as Wally, passed away on August 9, 2024.  He was known for his kindness, strength, and unique sense of humor.

Wally enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1966 after completing high school in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. He completed basic training at Parris Island and infantry training at Camp Geiger. After completing infantry training, he completed his combat engineer training at Courthouse Bay at Camp Lejeune. He was then stationed at Camp Pendleton before being sent to RVN, where he served as a combat engineer with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Marines. He fought at Khe Sanh, was tasked with mine sweeps, and served at the water distribution point, pumping and hauling duty. He also participated in the infamous revenge raid during the battle. He attended many reunions throughout the years with his wife, Trish. The reunions were something he looked forward to with great anticipation each year, and he enjoyed the camaraderie with his fellow Marines and other Khe Sanh vets.

After Vietnam, Wally returned to work as an inspector for Bethlehem Steel. He ran multiple 10K races and the Johnstown marathon until he was diagnosed with MS in 1990. He retired from Bethlehem Steel shortly after but found work in construction and, in later years, bookkeeping for multiple businesses, churches, and food pantries, which he continued until his passing.