Jerry Arnold Hoffman

Jerry Arnold Hoffman (“Jer Bear”), 92, of Vermillion, South Dakota, passed away on April 13th, 2026 at Sanford Vermillion Care Center—likely already cracking jokes and telling everyone to “hammer down” wherever he landed next.

He was born on June 25, 1933, in Union County, South Dakota, to Ira and Louise Hoffman. Jerry grew up in Union County and was later drafted into the United States Army, where he served for two years. On June 22, 1958, he married the love of his life, Sheila Ostlund, and together they raised two children, David and Sherri.

Jerry spent nearly 40 years as a truck driver, and if you knew him, you knew the road wasn’t just his job—it was his happy place. He loved taking his granddaughters along for the ride, teaching them about life, laughter, and probably a few things their mom didn’t approve of. Whether behind the wheel or off it, Jerry lived by his favorite saying: “Hammer down.”

He also loved riding his motorcycle with Sheila, making memories mile after mile. If there was an open road, a good story, and someone to laugh with, Jerry was exactly where he wanted to be.

Jerry was known for his quick wit, endless jokes, and ability to make just about anyone smile—whether they wanted to or not. He never missed a chance to lighten the mood, and his sense of humor will be remembered by all who knew him.

Jerry is survived by his brother, Ronnie Hoffman (Judy); his daughter, Sherri Davis; his grandchildren, Erica Miller (Carl), Chantel Cortez (Nahum), and Jake Hoffman; his five great-grandchildren, Kaley Lopez, Joshua Cortez (Zoe), Jordan Lopez, Isabella Cortez, and Nicolas Cortez; and his great-great-grandchild, Atlas Cortez. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who will miss his stories and humor.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sheila Hoffman; his son, David Hoffman; his parents, Ira and Louise Hoffman; and several siblings.

A Celebration of Life will be at 3:00 PM Friday, April 17, at Hansen Funeral Home in Vermillion.  Visitation with the family will begin at 2:00 PM.

The family request no flowers please due to allergies.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who cared for and watched over Jerry. He truly loved people and had a gift for making others laugh. We are forever grateful to those who helped ensure Grandpa was happy and comfortable until the very end.

In true Jerry fashion—keep it moving, keep smiling, and don’t forget… “Hammer down.”