Joseph “Joe” Lawrence Hofmann, age 93, of New York Mills, passed away peacefully and was called to eternal life by his Creator on January 9, 2025.

Born at home near Perham, Joe was the son of Anthony and Ida (Imholte) Hofmann. He was raised in the Catholic faith, attending Mass regulatory until his health no longer allowed and served over 65 years as an usher at St. Henry’s Catholic Church. Joe grew up on the family farm in Pine Lake Township, where he attended a nearby country school.

In 1955, Joe proudly answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United State Army. He served on the front lines in the 19th Infantry during the Korean War until 1957, later continuing his services in the Army Reserves until his honorable discharge in 1963. Joe was a decorated veteran, receiving the Korean Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Sharpshooter Medal. He was a proud lifetime member of the Perham VFW and an active Legionnaire.

Following his military service, Joe returned to New York Mills, where he resumed farming and dedicated himself to caring for the family land. His commitment to the farm was commemorated in 2015 when it was recognized as a Century Farm, a distinction honoring 100 years of continuous family ownership. Joe had a deep love for animals and farming, taking immense pride in the simple joys of rural life.

Joe’s hobbies reflected his hardworking and humble spirit. He enjoyed cutting wood, sawing lumber, and visiting with family and friends. Known for his outgoing personality, Joe loved playing cards, bowling, and valued a sense of community in his life.

Joe is survived by his sister Alice Lex of New York Mills; eight nieces and nephews Judy Lex, Barb Lex, Peter Lex, John Lex, Tom (Kitti Kivi-Lex) Lex, Mary (Rodney) Osowski, Susan (Rick) Schroer, and Steven (Michelle) Lex; as well as numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Carl Hofmann; nephew Michael Lex; and one great-nephew Cody Lex.

Joe’s life was marked by quiet determination, deep faith, and a love for family, friends, and the land he called home. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Funeral Services: Visitation was from 12-1 p.m., with a Rosary at 12:30 p.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 1 p.m. on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at St. Henry’s Catholic Church in Perham. Interment with Military Honors will be in the church cemetery.

Memorial Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Henry’s Catholic Church or the Perham VFW in honor of Joe’s memory.

Schoeneberger Funeral & Cremation Service, Perham,  (218) 346-5175 www.schoenebergerfh.com