John N. Hoffner

John Nelson Hoffner, 73, of Saxton, passed away on Monday, February 27, 2023 at Conemaugh Nason Medical Center, Roaring Spring.  He was born on August 1, 1949 in Huntingdon, PA; a son of the late Thomas Jackson Hoffner and Dorothy (Mogle) Forshey.

He is survived by a brother Bill Hoffner (Vicky), Williamsburg and sister Tamara (Forshey) Hansen, New Mexico; step-mother Gladys Hoffner, Williamsburg; dear friends Adam Runk and Amanda Adams; AFS "Sons" Sebastian, Hiromi, Eslam, Iacopo , Jon, and Flo, numerous cousins and a lifetime's worth of good friends.  John was an animal lover and a fur father to many.

Mr. Hoffner was a graduate of Williamsburg High School Class of 1967 and received his bachelors of science in music education from Mansfield State College in 1971.  He was a teacher, a mentor, and a world traveler.  He dedicated thirty-seven years to the Tussey Mountain School District serving as Band Director to an award winning band, choir director, musical director and elementary music instructor.  He advised graduating classes, prom committees and The National Honor Society.  He served his peers throughout his career as Tussey Mountain Education Association past president and was a P.M.E.A. member, long time secretary and a past president.

John was a talented musician.  He played piano and organ for his church in his hometown and later played for Trinity United Church of Christ in Saxton for a number of years.  He also played the French horn and even studied the bagpipes in his retirement years.  

His intelligence and leadership skills lead him to serve on Saxton Borough Council, church consistory and helped to establish the CHIP organization responsible for community improvement and general "fun".  He was an integral part of many Street Scene and Christmas in the Parkway events.

In his retirement years, he enjoyed watercolor painting, taking art courses and furthering his involvement in community music ensembles.  He was dedicated to AFS and programming for foreign exchange students.  He strongly believed in the importance of international tolerance and cultural exchange, so much so that he served as Allegheny Highlands Area Team president for AFS for many years.

Friends and family will be received on Friday, March 3, 2023 from 5-8 P.M. at the Akers Funeral Chapel, 715 Church Street, Saxton, PA 16678 and on Saturday from 11:00 A.M. until the hour of service at the church.

Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 12 Noon at the Trinity United Church of Christ with Pastor Jack Russell officiating. 

Burial will be held privately at Yellow Springs Cemetery.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.akersfuneralhome.com

If friends so desire memorial contributions may be made in memory of John to the Tussey Mountain High School Music Department c/o Adam Runk, 199 Front Street, Saxton, PA 16678.

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