Peter Michael Hoefer
December 24, 1948 - November 04, 2011
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Peter Michael Hoefer
December 24, 1948 - November 04, 2011
Obituary
Peter Michael Hoefer
December 24, 1948-November 4, 2011
Peter Michael Hoefer loved life. He was born to Bernard and Maggie Hoefer on Christmas Eve and was happiest surrounded by family during the holidays. He was devoted to his family, his friends and his students. His beautiful smile and extraordinary spirit are sorely missed by his wife, Barbara; his sister, Gretchen Terry; her husband, Chuck; and their children. Barbara’s family loved Peter deeply and struggles with his loss.
Peter’s many talents were reflected in the work he did. His gentle nature and love of all animals, especially horses, were put to use in his first career with Bob Hubbard Horse Transportation. He also loved to work with his hands and enjoyed being able to join his life-long friend, Warren Karr, in his TroubleShooters business. Peter’s final career as a Special Education teacher was the result of his passion for helping children believe in themselves, and develop to their full potential. He adored Del Cerro Elementary School, and was grateful for the opportunity to teach there with his wife. Peter played as hard as he worked. He was always excited to plan a trip to somewhere beautiful with Barbara’s parents, Bill and Carolyn Souza. Long summer vacations riding his bicycle near the beach or through the Rocky Mountains brought him endless joy.
Peter’s battle with liver disease ended on November 4th at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Because the faith of the doctors and nurses never wavered, he had the strength to persevere through some very difficult days. His family will always be grateful to them.
On Friday, November 18th from 1:00-2:00, Peter’s life will be celebrated at the Laguna Hills Community Center at 25555 Alicia Parkway. He will be laid to rest at the Riverside National Cemetery where his service in the United States Army 82nd Airborne Division will be honored.
Peter was courageous his entire life, most especially during the last two years. Barbara told him daily that he was her hero. He will be forever.
27 responses to Peter Michael Hoefer
Ashley Hosmer says:
November 12, 2011
1 file added to the tribute wall
Janice Schmidt says:
November 12, 2011
In my mind’s eye, I can see Peter now… His fun-loving smile and twinkling eyes are seared in my memory as I love to recall dancing with him on ‘The Electra’ yacht. Along with Barbara and friends, we all ‘rocked the boat’ that night.
Valerie Bennett says:
November 12, 2011
Peter embodied many admirable qualities. He had an innate kindness, an encouraging nature, and a deep devotion to Barbara and to the many students he has nurtured over the years. His positive attitude, sense of humor, courage and perseverance through countless challenges leaves us feeling humbled.
A favorite memory I have about Peter teaching me to rope a steer truly captures his essence. Knowing of Peter’s high school rodeo days it seemed perfect to have him teach the third graders some rope skills for our Rancho Day mock rodeo games. Peter was willing, but thought it would be even better to teach me how to do it too. Seriously doubting my abilities, Peter insisted that he could teach me in an hour. I observed as Peter expertly modeled how to hold the rope, how big to make the loop, and how to start twirling low and gradually moving it above your head, so you could release it just so to lasso one of the folding chair legs that he had scattered around the MPR to be our herd. Every time I failed he would patiently show me again and give me an encouraging word. He was so invested in the process that I didn’t dare give up, and eventually I lassoed my first steer by the heel. It was pretty satisfying, but I realized that Peter had a new level of challenge planned…a moving target. Peter wheeled out the red rolling cart whose handle was to simulate the horns of a running steer. He took great delight as he pushed the cart around the room while I proceeded to try to lasso it by the horns and pull it under control. I wanted to succeed because he thought I could. He made me feel proud of my accomplishment, no matter how silly it seems now.
Life was an adventure for Peter and he boldly grabbed whatever it gave him by the horns and fought to the end for all who loved him. I will miss you Peter.
Art Johnson says:
November 13, 2011
1 file added to the tribute wall
Beverly Lindbergh says:
November 13, 2011
2 files added to the tribute wall