Douglas Hofer

Family plans to host a Celebration of Life at future date and will update soon with details.

Douglas "Doug" Neal Hofer, age 71, passed away unexpectedly on August 26, 2026, in Sioux Falls, SD. He was born on April 21, 1955 in Huron, SD to Willard "Willy" and Joanne (Toby) Hofer. Doug grew up with five siblings in a family that loved fishing and hunting. His family later moved to Sioux Falls, where he graduated from Washington High School.

Doug always preferred the outdoors and working hands-on which naturally lead him to a life-long career in the construction trade where he could travel and work outdoors with the added perk of off-season hunting and fishing. Doug purchased a 1971 Harley Davidson Electroglide in his twenties and was a dedicated rider the rest of his life. Doug whole heartedly loved music and enjoyed playing guitar whenever the mood struck, he even played in a local band during younger years.

Doug eventually met his sole mate Leigh Burkel and they were married on December 3, 1991, in Sioux Falls. They moved to Pierre, SD for several years and landed back in Sioux Falls to make their life. Doug and Leigh enjoyed over forty years of love together living life on their own terms.

Doug retired from his career as a seasoned concrete finisher and started lots of other project interests at home. He loved wildlife and enjoyed woodcarving, gardening, animal watching, and for sure lots of laughter with family and friends. Recently, Doug found much joy spending time with his great niece, Harper and was grateful to be involved in her young life.

Doug is survived by his wife Leigh, his siblings, Dick (Susan) Hofer, Jack (Marsha) Hofer, Patty Gardener, and Tom Hofer, many special nieces and nephews, and a whole host of family and friends.

Doug is proceeded in death by his parents Willard and Joanne Hofer, and brother Gary Hofer.