John C. Hoeffner, Jr.

John C. Hoeffner, Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and community leader, passed away on May 3, 2025, at the age of 73. He was born on April 28, 1952, in Port Jefferson, New York. John lived a life characterized by unwavering service to his family, friends, and community.

John was a mechanic for the Department of Public Works in Suffolk County. He was also a proud member of the Yaphank Fire Department for an impressive 54 years, serving as the Ex-Chief three times and as a commissioner. His commitment to public service made him a familiar and respected figure in the Yaphank community, where he was affectionately known as the "mayor."

John was actively engaged in the Republican Party and delighted in his role as president of the Yaphank Cemetery. His contributions were a testament to his belief in giving back to the community that he cherished so deeply.

A high school graduate, John embodied a warmth and generosity that enveloped all who crossed his path. He spent 50 wonderful years married to his beloved wife, Catherine Hoeffner. Together, they built a life full of love and support each other through thick and thin. 

John’s legacy is carried on by his devoted family, including his daughter Kristen and her husband Cliff Griffin; his son John III and his wife Kimberley Hoeffner; and his grandchildren, Ashley Nicole, Bernardo James, Jillian Cameron Rose, Austyn Cameron, Jake Conrad, and great-grandchild Maleiya Rose. He is also survived by his brother Wayne and his wife Joanne, his sister-in-law Patricia (Scott), his sister-in-law Dorothy (Fred), and several nieces and nephews, including his devoted niece Jennifer, his Godsons Timmothy and Michael, "nephews" Chuckie, and his "nephew" Ryan. John often expressed his gratitude for his extended family, highlighting the influence of how lucky he was to have his cousins—the Spilletts, Hoeffners, DellaRoccas, Theobolds and Licaris—whom were all encouraging and supportive.

Preceding John in death are his father, the late John Sr.;  Mother, the late Gloria; brother, the late Ronald; late beloved nephew Jake and the Late beloved Jillian, cousin Mathew Baisley, and beloved godfather Jr. Spillett, and loving cousins Doc Spillett and Johnny Boy Spillett; Godmother Joan Della Rocca, Uncle Johnny Della Rocca; Aunt Rose and Uncle Hassleberger and beloved cousin Robert Della Rocca.

John was an avid NASCAR fan. John's love for cars didn't stop their John had a true love for 50's and 60's cars. In addition to love of cars John was an avid history buff he often spent his down time watching movies including the Civil War, WW1, WW2 and Vietnam, his love for movies didn't stop there he loved John Wayne, Rodney Dangerfield, Don Rickles, Clint Eastwood as well as the Godfather Series and Miami Vice John truly loved anything with fast cars and gun shots. If you didn't find John watching a movie you could find him listening to some of his favorite 50's music including Elvis, ZZ Top, Johnny Cash, Highwayman and so many more. 

To all of our family members fighting the battle, John's strength is with you during this difficult time. Now you have a Guardian Angel watching over you. His life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love for his family and an unwavering commitment to his community, and he will be dearly missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.

Visitation services will be held at Mangano Family Funeral Home of Middle Island in Middle Island, NY, on Monday, May 5, from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM, and Tuesday, May 6, from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM and again from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Firematic services will be held on Tuesday at 8:00 PM. A prayer service will take place on Wednesday, May 7 at 11:00 AM, concluding at 12:00 PM. Friends and family are invited to come together to remember and honor a remarkable man whose impact will be felt for years to come.

In Lieu of flowers the family kindly asks that donations be made to;

Tunnel to Towers Foundation

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Jake M. Hoeffner Memorial Scholarship Fund 

 donations sent to :Sent to Wayne Hoeffner

PO Box 274

Yaphank NY 11980

$1000 yearly to a YFD members child from longwood HS attending college. Donations have been given to a chosen student for over 25 years.