Chester Hoffman, age 96, passed away on Friday, December 7, 2007, at his home in Big Lake. He was born on April 21, 1911, in Proctor, North Carolina, to Ida Belle and John George Hoffman. He moved with his family to Big Lake, Washington, when he was 18 years old. Chester married Josephine Foss Barringer on June 7, 1936 at the Barringer family home in Big Lake. They lived in Snoqualmie for eight years and returned to Big Lake where they settled and raised their four children. Chester worked at Washington Co-op/Western Farmers for 30 years. He was a charter member of the Big Lake Community Church where he helped construct the church building and parsonage. He also served as Sunday School teacher, song leader, and board member. He was known for his generous and helpful spirit. Chester enjoyed gardening, traveling, fishing, and building. He was always involved in building or remodeling projects. Chester is survived by his brother, Troy Hoffman; his four children: daughter and son-in-law, Melba and Carlos Hall; daughter, Norma Everett; son and daughter-in-law, Phil and Barbara Hoffman; and son and daughter-in-law, Joseph and Shelley Hoffman all from Big Lake. Chester's extended family includes 17 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and 9 great, great grandchildren. His devotion to family and his strong Christian example have left a legacy that will be treasured forever. He was preceded in death by his wife Josephine of 69 years; his parents Ida Belle and John George Hoffman; brothers Fred, Lindsey, Lloyd, and Henry; sisters Pansy and Margaret; son-in-law, Jim Everett; and great granddaughter, Julie Bates. Viewing will be held Tuesday, December 11, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Wednesday, December 12, from 10 a.m. until the Graveside Service at 11 a.m. at Hawthorne Funeral Home and Memorial Park. A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, December 12, at 1 p.m. at the Big Lake Community Church of the Nazarene. Memorial donations may be made to the Big Lake Community Church of the Nazarene (23684 DaLacy Lane, Mount Vernon, WA 98274).