Leo William Hoffmann

Leo W. Hoffmann, 83, of Topeka, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Thursday, November 20, 2025, after a long battle with COPD. He was born on November 22, 1941, in Manhattan, New York, the son of William N. Hoffmann and Rose Marie (Vecchio) Hoffmann. Leo was raised in Rego Park (Queens), New York, and graduated in 1959 from Dwight School New York. 

In 1961, Leo enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was stationed at Forbes Air Force Base in Topeka and served honorably for four years as a jet engine mechanic. On July 11, 1964, he married Linda L. (Gish) Hoffmann at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Topeka, Kansas.

 Following his military service, Leo worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas and American United Life Insurance Company. He later joined his brother, Rick Hoffmann, in the residential lighting industry, serving as a sales representative for VPI Midwest. 

A long-time ham radio operator, Leo was an active member of the Kaw Valley Amateur Radio Club and was known on the airwaves by his call sign, WB0YOL. He cherished the friendships he built through the hobby and looked forward to breakfasts at Hy-Vee and Tuesday night dinners with his radio buddies. He was also a longtime member of the Capital City Gun Club. 

Leo was well-traveled, taking numerous international trips throughout his life. One of particular significance was a Catholic mission trip to Kenya. He made several trips to Asia with his brother and traveled with the Washburn University Alumni Association on multiple occasions, cruising the Danube River, Mediterranean Sea, and Iberian Peninsula. A favorite was the Alumni Association’s annual winter trip to Mexico, where he enjoyed spending time with family and friends who were on the trip. 

There was nothing fancy about Leo; he was a “meat and potatoes” kind of a guy who especially enjoyed a good ribeye steak, BBQ ribs, pulled pork and bacon ... lots of bacon. Bright colored crewneck shirts, comfortable athletic pants and Crocs pretty much summed up his wardrobe.

 Leo will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Linda L. (Gish) Hoffmann of Topeka; his daughter, Susan D. Hoffmann (Tim Bethel) of Topeka; his son, Robert A. Hoffmann (Elisabeth Laett) of Montreal, Quebec; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Tom and Cindy Gish of Topeka; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Rose Marie Hoffmann; his brother, Rick Hoffmann; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Hubert and Helen Gish; and his brother-in-law, Bob Gish. 

The family extends their sincere appreciation to the medical professionals and staff of the Colmery-O’Neil VA Medical Center in Topeka. As a disabled veteran, Leo was always grateful for the compassionate care he received there. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hubert C. and Helen L. Gish Entrepreneurial Scholarship Fund, in care of the Washburn University Alumni Association and Foundation, 1700 SW College Ave., Topeka, KS 66621, https://www.wualumni.org/g/givenow 

Per Leo’s request, he will be cremated. A graveside service at Memorial Park Cemetery in Topeka, as well as a celebration of life, will be held at a later date.