Blake Hoffman passed away peacefully at home on January 27, 2021. After going into remission 3 times, his 10 year battle with prostate cancer finally ended.
He was born in Chicago, Illinois, on March 18, 1949 to Bert and Dorothy (Blake) Hoffman. He graduated from Lane Technical High School in 1967. He excelled in swimming in high school and later in college, breaking many records for his butterfly stroke. He spent his summers as a lifeguard working on Lake Michigan.
He joined the United States Marine Corp in 1967, completed two years and was honorably discharged to pursue college.
He moved to California to competitively swim and complete a BA degree in Criminal Justice from UC Berkley.
In 1970 he was hired by the City of Sausalito Police Department. As a Patrol Officer he had a variety of experiences including uniformed patrol, a regular foot beat, traffic enforcement and occasional plain clothes investigative assignments. He left there honorably in 1973.
In 1974 Blake was hired by the City of San Mateo Park District. He helped coordinated with the Park District and San Mateo Police Department to form a Harbor Police Unit. His duties included planning, purchasing of equipment and staffing a 7 man Harbor Patrol Unit. He administered the program for approximately 6 months prior to joining the San Diego Police Department.
In 1974 he graduated from the Police Academy and worked for the City of San Diego becoming one of the youngest officers to be promoted to sergeant in 1978. He completed many certifications and was awarded many commendations during his police career. He loved working Ocean Beach as an officer and Supervisor. He took an early unexpected medical retirement in late1980.
He moved to Kings Valley, Oregon in 1981 starting a small cattle business in addition to obtaining certification as a farrier. He had a passion for all things outdoors, the law, and all animals, especially horses. He loved to adopt BLM horses to train for work or pleasure riding. In 2005 he started Hoffman Horse Works specializing in low impact horse logging. He spent the last 15 years using draft horses and his BLM horses to horse log in the Willamette Valley.
Survivors include wife Katrina (Harris) of 31 years; his four children: Garrett Hoffman, Lillie Hoffman (Brattain), Jayna Hoffman, and Jessica Hoffman. Survivors also include his brother David Hoffman.
His deep love for his family and friends will be cherished always. He will be remembered for his enduring kindness, love of animals, witty mind, and his willingness to ALWAYS lend a hand.
In lieu of any flowers or donations the family welcomes any fond memories and stories be sent to blakehorselogs@gmail.com