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Welcome to the memorial page for
Emil Thomas Hofman
June 24, 1921 ~ July 11, 2015 (age 94) 94 Years Old Light a Candle
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Message from patricia lapkin
January 20, 2021 3:57 PM
Dr. Hofman was the most affable and dear professor . He is the reason I became a physician. His lessons extended far beyond the classroom.
I think of you often, Dr Hofman, and know you are walking with the Angels.
Your memories are a blessing.
I think of you often, Dr Hofman, and know you are walking with the Angels.
Your memories are a blessing.
A candle was lit by Robin Raher Franciscovich, MD ND'77
on August 12, 2015 3:58 PM
Message from Dr. Thomas J. Miranda
July 21, 2015 9:42 PM
Emil was a friend, colleague and a Giant of an educator. He directed the Gravy Train while I was a graduate student at ND that helped graduates financially by grading papers. He is a legend and one who stands with the giants who made ND a great University. God Bless you Emil and my sympathy to Joan and the Boys.
Message from Lisa Dosch Slott
July 21, 2015 12:55 AM
Tom and Jim, I wanted to extend my condolences. Though I didn't know your Dad personally, I certainly knew many who did, and clearly he was greatly respected and appreciated. Wishing you all peace and hoping great memories will ease the sorrow that comes with loss.
Message from Betsy and Dan Carlsen
July 20, 2015 11:15 PM
Thoughts and prayers are with the Hofman family at this time. He was an inspiring person to so many and loved by all. May God bless him and your family.
Message from Paul H.I. Coleman (`77)
July 20, 2015 4:18 PM
I had the great pleasure of suffering through Dr. Hofman's Introductory Chemistry class as a freshman in 1973. I somehow survived, went on to get a PhD in Astrophysics, and now I am a professor myself. Every week I take pride in administering a seven question quiz in my introductory physics and astronomy classes. I know that my students will be forced to learn the subject with the same thoroughness that I had to for Chemistry - all those years ago. (I still remember many more details from that chemistry course than any other course I ever took!)
My prayers are with his family and I know it is a small conciliation for the loss of such a great man… but you should know that Emil lives on in the lives of all of us who were made better by having known him.
My prayers are with his family and I know it is a small conciliation for the loss of such a great man… but you should know that Emil lives on in the lives of all of us who were made better by having known him.
Message from Tim Salamunovich (Class of 1978)
July 20, 2015 4:05 PM
I have many fond memories of Dr. Hofman ("Emil T"), who dominated my freshman year activities vis a vis the dreaded Friday morning inorganic chemistry quizzes. More importantly I distinctly remember Dr. Hofman giving our group an impromptu lecture/pep talk late in our freshman year encouraging us to pursue our studies with vigor and telling us we could not make a difference until we "knew something about something". I also remeber him interrupting our first semester final exam in december of 1975 to give us the news that Ara Paraseghian had announced his retirement as head football coach. God Rest Dr. Emil T Hofman.
Message from Jack Crawford, ND66
July 20, 2015 2:20 PM
I was warned that "Emil T's" chem course was tough. No, it was good and he inspired me to get an A. He has been a presence and continued inspiration for me ever since. I mourn his death and celebrate his well lived life.
Message from Michael A. Hazard AIA '77
July 20, 2015 11:26 AM
In the 43 years since my time as a freshman, Dean Emil T has played a pivotal part in my recollections and appreciation for Notre Dame.
His role as author and professor of the legendary freshman chemistry course was one of reverence, fear and survival prompting even an informal editing to the words of the Our Father’s prayer with which his 10:10 AM class was always started.
His role as Dean of the Freshman Year of studies was one of kindness and mentorship. After a very sobering year as an engineering major, the results of my performance in his Chemistry course made it evident that a change was in order. On academic probation, I came back to campus to consult with him and he cared for my solitary predicament as though no other existed and after numerous discussions, suggested that I visit the architecture department.
From probation to the dean’s list in one semester, I had, indeed found my direction and experienced the caring that Notre Dame and Emil chose as the hallmark for all that they accepted: one where all efforts were devoted to support, encouragement and love. That approach has formed a student body that is sent into the world very well equipped to survive with the fittest.
My sympathies to his family and to all of us lucky enough to have known him and been touched by his brilliance and warmth.
His role as author and professor of the legendary freshman chemistry course was one of reverence, fear and survival prompting even an informal editing to the words of the Our Father’s prayer with which his 10:10 AM class was always started.
His role as Dean of the Freshman Year of studies was one of kindness and mentorship. After a very sobering year as an engineering major, the results of my performance in his Chemistry course made it evident that a change was in order. On academic probation, I came back to campus to consult with him and he cared for my solitary predicament as though no other existed and after numerous discussions, suggested that I visit the architecture department.
From probation to the dean’s list in one semester, I had, indeed found my direction and experienced the caring that Notre Dame and Emil chose as the hallmark for all that they accepted: one where all efforts were devoted to support, encouragement and love. That approach has formed a student body that is sent into the world very well equipped to survive with the fittest.
My sympathies to his family and to all of us lucky enough to have known him and been touched by his brilliance and warmth.
Message from Richard ZmcHugh
July 20, 2015 12:59 AM
We pray for the Hofmann family and the many students Dr. Hofmann influenced. His legacy will never end.
A candle was lit by Richard McHugh
on July 20, 2015 12:56 AM
Message from Joe and Rita Grande
July 19, 2015 10:20 PM
One of the true measures of greatness is the number of lives that are touched by mentorship, guidance, and compassion. Dr. Hofman has indeed touched thousands of lives. On a more personal note, Dr. Hofman has been one of the most inspirational figures in my life--I will always cherish everything he did for our family over many years. Dr. Hofman will be missed, but not forgotten.
Our prayers are with his family.
Joe Grande
Class of 1979
Our prayers are with his family.
Joe Grande
Class of 1979
Message from Josie Danini Cortez, Class of 1977
July 19, 2015 4:56 PM
Please accept my deepest sympathies. I have never forgotten, nor will I ever forget, the many kindnesses that Dean Hofman extended to me at Notre Dame. He took me under his wing, getting me through that first year of freshman Chemistry and homesickness, self-doubt and uncertainty. I have been blessed to have had such an extraordinary teacher and mentor. May he rest in peace.
Josie Danini Cortez, "77
Josie Danini Cortez, "77
A candle was lit by Josie Danini Cortez, Class of 1977
on July 19, 2015 4:41 PM
A candle was lit by Sarah Lynch Hadley '77
on July 19, 2015 9:54 AM
Message from Brenda Sherron Ralph
July 19, 2015 9:47 AM
Aunt Joan, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Uncle Emil. Even though I did not get to know him because we live a few states away, he was a part of our family. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Message from Donna Mangione
July 18, 2015 8:12 AM
Bless you Emil T. for all that you have given us on this Earth. Peace and love to your family as they miss your presence. Please go find my dear dad and talk ND stuff in Heaven!
A candle was lit by Tim Hake '77
on July 17, 2015 3:51 PM
Message from Valerie Zurblis '77
July 17, 2015 2:15 PM
Professor Hoffman was feared and loved. In freshman chemistry, I remember him throwing out a student and told him never to return, for talking during his lecture. Another time a pesky fly bothered him so much when he was doing overhead slides he walked out! We even had a streaker run across the stage, but he kept on like nothing had happened.
In those days the Texas Instruments Calculator was the latest technology. He allowed us to use them for that famous Friday 7-question quiz. What he didn't know was that the calculator could handle up to a seven digit number then fade. All you had to do was put the correct 1,2,3, or 4 answer in each slot, pass to the next person who would bring the numbers back up. Of course, I was way too afraid I'd get caught so never did that.
He was also the most lovely, caring professor in Freshman Year of Studies and counseled me that science wasn't in my future, but I will never forget the impact he made on me. God rest his soul.
In those days the Texas Instruments Calculator was the latest technology. He allowed us to use them for that famous Friday 7-question quiz. What he didn't know was that the calculator could handle up to a seven digit number then fade. All you had to do was put the correct 1,2,3, or 4 answer in each slot, pass to the next person who would bring the numbers back up. Of course, I was way too afraid I'd get caught so never did that.
He was also the most lovely, caring professor in Freshman Year of Studies and counseled me that science wasn't in my future, but I will never forget the impact he made on me. God rest his soul.
Message from CAPT Terrance C. Leary DC, USN (RET)
July 17, 2015 2:05 PM
Thank you for sharing your knowledge to so many of us. You and your family are in our prayers.
Message from Frank Floyd MD
July 17, 2015 11:11 AM
My condolences to all the family and friends of Dr Hoffman. I was one of many who feared his weekly Emil T's. Yet, his course made me proficient in chemistry and left me with the sense of confidence I needed to become a physician. In later years I learned when my daughter was attending ND that a nice retired professor would talk with her and even took her and some of her dorm mates out for a meal. This "nice professor" was the same Dr Hoffman who had me so apprehensive every Friday years earlier . He will be missed by many and will be in my prayers.
Message from Jolhn P. Gallina, Class of 1977
July 17, 2015 10:57 AM
Professor Hoffman was a special member of the Notre Dame family. He will be missed and will always be in our prayers.
A candle was lit by Richard M. Yelovich, MD
on July 17, 2015 10:44 AM
Message from RICHARD E. SCHEETZ JR DDS MS FICD ND 77
July 17, 2015 10:14 AM
I will always affectionately remember the great Emil T. Hoffman. The transition from high school to undergraduate studies was daunting, and he certainly made that transition as smooth as possible for all of us. What an amazing man and someone who left his mark at ND and mankind. He will be sadly but fondly missed.
Message from Tommy Murphy
July 16, 2015 4:35 AM
Dear Joan, Tom and Family,
I was deeply saddened when Sheila and Neil shared the news with me yesterday. Those of us who grew up at Notre Dame were so very lucky to have known Dr Hoffman: a man of truly high calibre and intellect - very much his own man. All of the Murphys send our prayers for your beautiful family. May God bless Emil T.
Thomas T. Murphy
Sydney
I was deeply saddened when Sheila and Neil shared the news with me yesterday. Those of us who grew up at Notre Dame were so very lucky to have known Dr Hoffman: a man of truly high calibre and intellect - very much his own man. All of the Murphys send our prayers for your beautiful family. May God bless Emil T.
Thomas T. Murphy
Sydney
A candle was lit by Kathy (Shuman) Cherry
on July 15, 2015 3:02 PM
Message from Kim Dowling Bowman
July 15, 2015 1:06 PM
Jim, Tom & Michael,
I am so sorry for your loss. I have read the local articles about your dad, what a full life he had and he gave so much to others. Prayers for you and your family at this difficult time.
The Dowling Family
I am so sorry for your loss. I have read the local articles about your dad, what a full life he had and he gave so much to others. Prayers for you and your family at this difficult time.
The Dowling Family
Message from Joe Burns and Mary Spalding
July 15, 2015 12:51 PM
Thank you and rest in peace Dr. Hofman. You are ND.
Message from Cindy Parseghian
July 15, 2015 12:49 PM
Two summers ago on a sunny June day, I was on campus and saw Emil sitting on his very famous office bench. I thought to myself that I would stop and talk for a few minutes to keep him company. After two hours of talking about many topics, personal and not, I realized what a huge gift he had given to me that afternoon. He was still the consummate instructor, sharing life's challenges and shedding light on what really matters most in life. He blessed the Notre Dame Community with his intellect, his humor, his devotion and his grace. A life well lived...........
A candle was lit by Ray Viducich, MD and family
on July 15, 2015 12:39 PM
Message from Ray Viducich, MD
July 15, 2015 12:38 PM
My sincerest condolences go out to the wonderful Hofman family. I graduated from ND in 1987. I feared and respected Dr Hofman as a student and revered him as an Alum. For me he will always be one if the most iconic ND figures. I am so glad that he encouraged me to join him on one of his reconnaissance trips to Haiti three years ago. It was Dr Hofman's last trip. My daughter Isabella (now a rising sophomore at ND) joined me and got to spend some quality time with this great man. He was joined by several of his family members on this trip. He treated us like part of his family. I will never forget how welcoming and gracious he and his family were to us. We even joined in celebrating his 91st birthday in Haiti! Last month, Isabella and I returned to Haiti, this time on a medical mission, with my 16 year old daughter Angela. We joined other ND physicians and families who have been similarly encouraged by the great Dr Hofman. May the good Lord forever bless Dr Hofman and his family. Thank you for the positive influence that you have had on me and my children and your legions of previous students and alumni.
Message from Maureen O'Neill
July 15, 2015 10:59 AM
I was never a bright enough student to take Emil T's course but I shared a floor of women who were. The subdued nature of Thursday night as they all prepared for one of Emil's notorious quizzes consumed the tone of the dorm. The professions that each of these bright young women went on to proved to be living examples of excellence in Emil's ability to teach and to care about what came next. Rest in peace dear man. Well done in your abundant gifts of education to so many.
A candle was lit by Maureen O'Neill
on July 15, 2015 10:56 AM
A candle was lit by Rick Podrasky
on July 15, 2015 10:08 AM
Message from Tim O'Meara
July 14, 2015 9:28 PM
With happy memories of a wonderful working relationship spanning more than a quarter of a century. Emil meant so much to me, to Jean, and to each of our five children. Joan, you’re in my thoughts and prayers during this time of great loss.
Fondly, Tim O’Meara
Fondly, Tim O’Meara
Message from Jeannie Wade
July 14, 2015 12:50 PM
Joan, I'm so sorry to hear of Dr. Hofman's passing. My thoughts are with you and your family.
A candle was lit by John and Judy Kenney (Leliaert)
on July 14, 2015 11:44 AM
Message from Ginger McGowan Bishop, ND '77 Class Secretary
July 14, 2015 11:43 AM
On behalf of the ND Class of 1977, please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of a beloved man and educator, whose positive impact on so many students is legendary. May the Angels lead him into Paradise, and may he rest in peace. ND '77 Class Officers.
A candle was lit by Meg Auth
on July 14, 2015 11:36 AM
A candle was lit by Katie O'Meara
on July 14, 2015 8:52 AM
Message from Lisa Weil Webb
July 14, 2015 8:14 AM
Tom and Jim, I am sorry for your loss. Your family is in my prayers. I have read all the local articles and wonder at what an innovator and truly great man he was. Though I never meet him, I could see what great sons he raised.
SJ Class 78
SJ Class 78
A candle was lit by Gary Evins '75
on July 14, 2015 8:14 AM
A candle was lit by Ann Elisa Moore '77
on July 14, 2015 6:06 AM
A candle was lit by Nancy A. Fitzpatrick
on July 13, 2015 11:09 PM
Message from Mary T. O'Brien ND 77
July 13, 2015 10:27 PM
"Emil T" was a famous professor among my classmates. He challenged and taught so many young people, introducing them to the rigors of a university education. My condolences to his family for a great loss.
A candle was lit by Eileen O'Meara
on July 13, 2015 10:23 PM
A candle was lit by Cathleen McInerny Brownell
on July 13, 2015 9:55 PM
A candle was lit by Kitty Conklin '77
on July 13, 2015 9:36 PM
A candle was lit by Karen M. Dunegan, DMD, '79
on July 13, 2015 9:02 PM
A candle was lit by Mary Bloom Kelly
on July 13, 2015 7:14 PM
Message from Chaplain Linda Cirillo
July 13, 2015 6:54 PM
My thoughts and prayers are with you Joan and the entire family. I will always remember the 2010 trip to Haiti-one week before the Earthquake. May our Lord and Blessed Mother be with you during this time of loss. I know I speak for the women of Lewis Hall as their Rector from 2006-2010.
A candle was lit by Keiren Donovan Smith MD '77
on July 13, 2015 6:48 PM
A candle was lit by Charlie & Ann Timm Rimkus, '77
on July 13, 2015 6:22 PM
Message from Charlie & Ann Timm Rimkus, '77
July 13, 2015 6:20 PM
Dear Hofman Family,
Your tremendous loss is felt by the entire Notre Dame Family. “Emil T” helped shape the education, on-campus experience, and life course for both of us and our four children. We will be joining the tens of thousands of people praying that you find peace and comfort in knowing he has moved on to his eternal reward for all the good he brought to the world.
Your tremendous loss is felt by the entire Notre Dame Family. “Emil T” helped shape the education, on-campus experience, and life course for both of us and our four children. We will be joining the tens of thousands of people praying that you find peace and comfort in knowing he has moved on to his eternal reward for all the good he brought to the world.
Message from Joan Hofman
August 28, 2015 9:31 AM
Ann and Charlie,
Thank you for lighting a candle and your kind words of condolence. If Emil were still here he would be on his bench, "field office", on campus waiting for young students to pass by so that he could make them feel more comfortable with their Notre Dame experience.
Joan
Thank you for lighting a candle and your kind words of condolence. If Emil were still here he would be on his bench, "field office", on campus waiting for young students to pass by so that he could make them feel more comfortable with their Notre Dame experience.
Joan
A candle was lit by Colleen Minogue Gale
on July 13, 2015 5:55 PM
Message from Marianne Morgan Harris
July 13, 2015 5:36 PM
Thank you for making my Notre Dame experience as one of the first class of women at Notre Dame the best ever!
Message from Joan Hofman
August 28, 2015 9:22 AM
Marianna,
Thank you for lighting a candle in Emil's name. He was so proud of that first group of female graduates from ND. You were fantistic leaders for all the women to follow and they have done marvolus things with their education acquired at ND.
Joan
Thank you for lighting a candle in Emil's name. He was so proud of that first group of female graduates from ND. You were fantistic leaders for all the women to follow and they have done marvolus things with their education acquired at ND.
Joan
A candle was lit by Marianne Morgan Harris
on July 13, 2015 5:34 PM
A candle was lit by Judy Shiely King
on July 13, 2015 5:30 PM
Message from AllisonYuhl Kenney
July 13, 2015 5:15 PM
Dear Joan:
It is with great sadness and affection that I write to you to share my favorite memory of Emil with you. As a Freshman in 1973, I was taken under Emil's wing and so enjoyed our "lunch dates" together. He was so genuine and straightforward, two traits that are essential in dealing with college freshmen.
He and my father, Eric Yuhl, MD, shared a special bond and I know they are reunited in heaven. Emil was a man of integrity and honesty.
My prayers will be with you and your family.
Fondly,
Allison Yuhl Kenney
It is with great sadness and affection that I write to you to share my favorite memory of Emil with you. As a Freshman in 1973, I was taken under Emil's wing and so enjoyed our "lunch dates" together. He was so genuine and straightforward, two traits that are essential in dealing with college freshmen.
He and my father, Eric Yuhl, MD, shared a special bond and I know they are reunited in heaven. Emil was a man of integrity and honesty.
My prayers will be with you and your family.
Fondly,
Allison Yuhl Kenney
Message from Joan Hofman
August 28, 2015 9:16 AM
Allison,
Let me offer condolence on the death of your father. That news had not made the way to South Bend. Eric and Emil will indeed be reunited in the great beyond.
Thank you for sharing your experience while at ND. This was Emil's favorite time of the year, when the new students came to campus. If he were still with us he would be on his bench making contact with new students.
Joan
Let me offer condolence on the death of your father. That news had not made the way to South Bend. Eric and Emil will indeed be reunited in the great beyond.
Thank you for sharing your experience while at ND. This was Emil's favorite time of the year, when the new students came to campus. If he were still with us he would be on his bench making contact with new students.
Joan
A candle was lit by Allison Yuhl Kenney and Mike Kenney
on July 13, 2015 5:10 PM
Message from Barbara Nanovic Garigliano, Class of 1977
July 13, 2015 4:45 PM
I was one of the class of 1977 PreProfessional Science majors at ND. I remember Thursday nights studying for "Emils" and begin terrorized by "Double Emils." I remember going to the Grotto to pray for intervention when studying did not seem sufficient. Mostly, I remember that Emil was often also at the Grotto. I like to think he was praying for us. Together, we made it.
Thank you Dr. Hofman.
Barbara Nanovic Garigliano
Thank you Dr. Hofman.
Barbara Nanovic Garigliano
Message from Joan Hofman
August 28, 2015 8:51 AM
Barbara,
Thank you for sharing you memories of life at ND with Dr. Hofman and his Chemistry class. The fact that you survived goes to show that you are made of strong stuff and will be able to handle whatever life hands you.
Joan
Thank you for sharing you memories of life at ND with Dr. Hofman and his Chemistry class. The fact that you survived goes to show that you are made of strong stuff and will be able to handle whatever life hands you.
Joan
Message from Karen Crowley Metzinger
July 13, 2015 4:40 PM
May our UND legend rest in peace after enhancing the lives of so many.
Message from Joan Hofman
August 28, 2015 8:46 AM
Karen,
Thank you for your kind words of Condolence. Emil T. will live on in the minds of many.
Joan
Thank you for your kind words of Condolence. Emil T. will live on in the minds of many.
Joan
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