Harold Hofstetter

Ike was born February 27th 1935, the son of the late Harold and Theodosia (Hannewalker) Hofstetter, in Moline, IL. In 1953, Ike met his future bride, Carolyn, while roller skating. Ike and Carolyn were engaged shortly after and Ike left for Korea, as part of the U.S. Army. Their engagement consisted of countless letters written back and forth. Ike was honorably discharged in 1957, and shortly after returning home, the couple was united in marriage. Ike taught history for a year and then changed careers and began working as an engineer at John Deere, where he worked until retirement.

Ike was very proud of his service in the Army, during the Korean War. He was a member of the Man of Honor Society and the V.F.W. Most recently, he participated in the Honor Flight in May 2012. Ike was a talented bowler, traveling to nationals numerous times, and was an enthusiastic golfer. An avid outdoorsman, Ike enjoyed fishing and camping. Throughout the years, Ike and Carolyn traveled to Las Vegas, often several times a year. After retirement, the couple moved to Arkansas and two years ago, relocated to Wausau, to be close to their children.

On October 18th 2013, Harold "Ike" Wayne Hofstetter, 78, died at Ministry St. Clare's Hospital, Weston, with his family by his side.

Ike's memory will live on in the hearts of his loving family, including his wife of 56 years, Carolyn Hofstetter; three children, Kevin Hofstetter, Kathy (Vaughn) Meyer, and Duane Hofstetter; five grandchildren, Timothy Hofstetter, Brittany Smith, Cody Smith, Morgyn Hofstetter, and Mandy Meyer; sister, Patricia (Dale) Bennett; other family members; and countless friends. Along with his parents, Ike was preceded in death by his brother, Dale.

A memorial visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m., Friday, October 25th, at the Helke Funeral Home, Wausau. A memorial service will be held on November 2nd, at the Van Hoe Funeral Home, East Moline, IL; with interment at the Hampton Cemetery, Hampton, IL.