James Russell Hoffer

James Russell Hoffer, known to all as Russell, age 93, of Waynesville, Ohio, passed away on Sunday, October 4, 2026. He was born June 6, 1933, to James and Ethel (Brooks) Hoffer.

Russell spent much of his life around Wilmington, Ohio, and most recently made his home at Quaker Heights Assisted Living in Waynesville. He and his beloved wife, Rosemary, shared more than 73 years of marriage, a partnership that was the foundation of their family. A builder by trade and by nature, he owned and operated Hoffer Construction, where he was well known in the community.

Russell had a craftsman's hands and a patient eye. He was a gifted scrimshaw artist, carving intricate designs into jewelry and knives that family and friends will treasure for generations. For more than 50 years he was a proud member of the National Muzzle Loader Society, sharing his love of history and tradition with fellow enthusiasts. When he wasn't building or carving, he could usually be found with a good book.

Russell is survived by his children, Karen (Richard Nicholson) Gano, Steve (Caryl) Hoffer, and Dwan (Rick) Sandlin; his grandchildren, Jennifer (Danny) Wood, James Hoffer, Nick (Tifaney) Sandlin, and Wesley (Traci) Sandlin; and his great-grandchildren, Lacie, Alyssa, Jakob, Jackson, Jared, Caleb, Andrew, Cora, and Penny. He is also survived by siblings Marie Williamson and Ted Hoffer.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Rosemary Hoffer; his parents, James and Ethel Hoffer; his brothers, Wade, Carl, and David Hoffer; and his sister, Kathleen Clark.

Visitation will be on Wednesday October 7, 2026, at the Littleton Funeral Home, Sabina from 1:00 P.M until the time of service at 2:30 P.M. Burial will follow in the Sabina Cemetery.