Karl Evan Hoffacker Jr.
Karl “Ponch” Evan Hoffacker Jr., age 79, passed away peacefully on Nov. 18, 2025.
Born on Dec. 6, 1945, in Cleveland, Ohio, he was the beloved son of Karl and Elsie (nee Simmonds) Hoffacker. Karl lived a life marked by faith, curiosity, kindness and a genuine love for people.
Karl grew up with a deep appreciation for music. He played trombone in the high school bands at Brush and West Geauga, where he developed a lifelong fondness for the rich sounds of big band music. He also loved Southern gospel, often sharing his favorite songs and the joy they brought him with others.
Blessed with an impeccable memory, Karl had a remarkable talent for trivia and was known as a true wizard at Trivial Pursuit. His quick recall and vast knowledge made him both an entertaining opponent and an admired teammate. He delighted in learning new facts and sharing them with his warm, good-natured spirit.
Faith played a central role throughout Karl’s life. He was an active churchgoer and a devoted Sunday school teacher, offering guidance, encouragement and heartfelt lessons to those he taught. His gentle spirit and steady devotion left an imprint on everyone who learned from him.
Karl is survived by his brother, Kurt (Dorothy) Hoffacker; his sisters, Faith Whitcomb and Kris (Rob) Moore; and his nieces, Nadine (Eric) Toth, Janna (Mike) Luck, Joy (Paul) Cimino, Michelle (Rob) Rodriguez, Kathryn (Al) Wozniak and Victoria (Mike Jurney) Moore.
He is also survived by his great-nieces, Nicole Toth, Brittany Burkholder, Rachel (Alex) Luck, Kelly (Jaime) McClelland and Julia Rodriguez; and his great-nephews, David (Bethany) Toth, Daniel (Shari) Toth, Jared (Frances) Toth, Jason (Jessica) Luck, Richard “Ricky” (Alli) Cimino, Tyler Rodriguez, Joel (Audrey) Rodriguez and Evan Rodriguez.
In addition, Karl is survived by 10 great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, along with many other extended family members who loved him dearly. He is also survived by his cousin, Brian Gilbert.
Karl was preceded in death by his parents, Karl and Elsie Hoffacker; his brother-in-law, Richard G. Whitcomb; and nephew, Richard G. Whitcomb Jr.
A private family burial will be held, with a celebration of life to follow at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cleveland Sight Center, 1909 East 101st St., Cleveland, OH 44106
Arrangements are entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
