Verna Hoffman, 91, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on Thursday, December 14, 2017 at the Trail Ridge Memory Care Center in Sioux Falls.  Her funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 19, 2017 at the United Methodist Church in Redfield, SD.  Reverend Marty Toepke-Floyd will officiate.  Following lunch and a time of fellowship, burial will be at the Rockham Cemetery in Rockham, SD.

Visitation will be Monday, from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. with family present, at Thelen-Hyke Funeral Home in Redfield.  A prayer service will follow at 7:00 p.m.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Thelen-Hyke Funeral Home. (www.thelen-hykefuneralhome.com)

Verna Marie Jackson was born April 15, 1926 near Rockham, SD to Verne and Mabel (Busch) Jackson, the oldest of ten children.  She graduated from St. Lawrence High School, then earned her teaching certificate and taught for several years at rural schools.

On September 29, 1946 Verna was united in marriage to Robert Hoffman.  They spent 63+ years together working hard on their farm NW of Rockham raising cattle, sheep and three daughters and eventually moving to Redfield in 2007.

Christian faith was the foundation of Verna's life and the United Methodist Church was an important part.  She taught adult Sunday school classes, played the organ for church services, directed the church choir and welcomed new pastors as they started their ministries.  Verna had a thirst for knowledge and learning - reading books, attending community plays, traveling to hear speakers and was also well known for her cooking and baking - always eager to try a new recipe.  She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and American Legion Auxiliary.

Grateful for having shared her life are her three daughters:  Diane Cogley of Sioux Falls; Jeanette (Paul) Hoffman DeHaan of Custer, SD; and Bobbi Hoffman of Sioux Falls; five grandchildren: Kibbi McCormick, Bob Cogley, Tom Cogley, Beth Cogley and David Petersen; and ten great-grandchildren.  Verna is also survived by sisters: Karen Pflanz and Rene (David) Kelnhofer and brothers: Clifford (Leota); Dick (Gwen); and Lyle (Kathy) Jackson; one brother-in-law Willard Hoffman and numerous nieces and nephews.

Verna was preceded in death by parents, her husband and her four siblings:  Shirley, Herbert "Ole", Doug and an infant sister.

Verna will be greatly missed by her family, friends and many acquaintances she met during her active life. She was a blossom in the middle of the prairie. Her kindness, integrity, and beautiful smile will always be remembered.