Gena Grandstaff Hoffmann, 79

Gena Grandstaff Hoffmann, 79, passed away on October 5, 2024. She was born in North Platte,NE on August 27, 1945, to Eugenia “Penny” Herauf and Floyd “Cac” Grandstaff. Gena was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brother, Mike Grandstaff; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. She leaves behind her sister, Marilyn K. Grandstaff Moulds; sister-in-law, Georgette “Andie” Grandstaff; four nieces, one nephew, six great-nephews, and many cousins.

Gena married William “Bill” Hoffmann in 1970. She was a teacher and a rancher’s wife, her children were the students she taught for over 40 years. She retired in 2004 and moved to Rapid City with her husband, where they enjoyed the Black Hills.

Gena attended Chadron State College where she majored in physical education and mechanical drafting, and was the first woman to enroll in mechanical drafting. She received a bachelor’s degree and went on to get her Master of Science degree in Education. She taught for one year at a junior college in Minnesota and then returned home to marry the love of her life.

As a rancher’s wife, in the summer, Gena cooked for the hay crew and sometimes worked in the field. In the winter she taught computer classes but loved coaching volleyball at Cody-Kilgore, a rural high school where she graduated. She also served as school librarian and volunteer EMT for the area. She was often called out during the middle of classes, and at night. Gena was a member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority and served several offices while maintaining perfect attendance for 50 years. Even in retirement she continued to teach as a substitute for the Catholic Cathedral School in Rapid City.

Her hobby was gardening, as she had a green thumb just like her mother. She loved to grow fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and green beans.

Gena walked three miles in her neighborhood every evening. She and Bill enjoyed visiting the Crazy Horse Monument in the Black Hills. They became friends with the owner and were able to take a private trip to the top. She and Bill also enjoyed attending family reunions on both sides of the family.

Celebration of Life will be May 9, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Nenzel, NE. Followed by a Christian burial at Saint Mary’s Cemetery. The Altar Society will provide lunch after the burial service.