Jack M. Hoffarth Sr., 86, of, Belleville, IL, born Thursday, August 6, 1936, in East St. Louis, IL, passed away Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, IL.
After graduating from East St. Louis High School where he was a standout athlete on the Track and Undefeated Football Team, Jack took a job at Armour Packing where he worked for 5 years until taking a police officer’s position at Centerville Police Department for 2 years. He then took a job at Monsanto where he worked for 31 years. While working at Monsanto he started a side business which was known as Town Hall Archery.
His passion for the sport of archery grew as a child. He purchased his first real competition bow in 1961 from Earl Hoyt of Hoyt Archery who he looked up to as his mentor in the sport and business. He joined St. Louis Archery Club soon after and competed with the family all over the United States. In 1969 Jack and Diana started Town Hall Archery which was open for 53 years. Through archery he touched many lives and made a wealth of friends from all over the world. Jack was always ready to help anyone perpetuate the sport of archery whether it was an individual or business. He started Kids programs in the early 70’s (Junior Olympic Archery program) which helped grow the sport. To this day there are those reaping the benefit of what he started. ARCHERY WAS EVERYTHING!
He was preceded in death by his:
- Parents: Edward J. Sr. and Katherine R., nee Franey, Hoffarth
- Brother: Edward (Edna) Hoffarth Jr.
Surviving is his:
- Loving wife: Diana Hoffarth, nee Dick, of Belleville, IL
- Sons
- Jack “Monty” (Colette) Hoffarth Jr. of Belleville, IL
- Brian “Scott” Hoffarth of Freeburg, IL
- Grandchildren
- Katherine (Nick) Kleinschmidt
- Dalton Jacob Hoffarth
- Great grandson: Chase Kleinschmidt
- Nephew: Dan (Pat) Hoffarth
- Niece: Christine (Pat) Diestel
- Numerous great nieces and nephews
- Beloved pet: Stella
Memorials: Memorials may be made to the Easton Foundation.
Visitation: Visitation from 3:00 – 7:00 pm, Monday, December 12th, 2022 at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A Funeral Service will be held at 7:00 pm, Monday, December 12th, 2022 at Kurrus Funeral Home, with Rev. Doug Stewart officiating.
6 Comments To "Jack M. Hoffarth Sr."
#1 Comment By Sherry On December 9, 2022 @ 9:56 pm
Diana, you know my heart is aching for you, Monty, Cis, Scott,
Katie and Chase
#2 Comment By Lamont Winters On December 10, 2022 @ 7:32 am
My condolences go out to the entire Hoffarth family. I met Jack some 20 years ago when I began in the sport of archery. Jack had a wealth of knowledge and patience with me as l learned the sport and asked tons of questions. Jack will truly be missed. R.I.P
#3 Comment By Maribeth Detmer On December 10, 2022 @ 10:57 am
Diana, I’m so sorry to hear this! What a wonderful man! Sending hugs and prayers to you and your family❤️
#4 Comment By Norene Kathy Wright On December 10, 2022 @ 11:13 am
Diana and family, You have my deepest sympathy.
#5 Comment By Kim Lautner On December 10, 2022 @ 9:21 pm
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. He was a great man and lucky to be loved by such a wonderful family.
#6 Comment By karen s Kimme On December 11, 2022 @ 1:11 pm
My mom, Annabelle Hoffarth, and I, Karen Hoffarth Kimme, are saddened by the passing of my dad’s cousin Jack. Prayers for your family during this time. It is never easy to lose a loved one.