James ‘Jim’ Robert Hoffman

Feb. 3, 1947 – Feb. 20, 2025

James “Jim” Robert Hoffman, 78, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away February 20, 2025.

Born on February 3, 1947, in Cody, Jim was the son of Walter R. and Beverly J. (Nye) Hoffman, whom he cherished deeply throughout his life. 

Growing up in the beautiful surroundings of Cody, he developed a love for the outdoors. He worked at his father’s service station, enjoyed fixing cars and spent his free time backpacking and exploring the nearby mountains. One of his most memorable treks was the journey from Pahaska over the mountain and into Sunlight Basin.

Jim graduated from Cody High School in 1965 and furthered his education at Northwest Community College in Powell, later joining the Wyoming Army National Guard, where he served as an artillery gunner from 1967 to 1973. 

In 1970, Jim married Katherine M. (Heaton) Harbert on November 5. Although their relationship wasn’t permanent, they had two children together and remained friends afterward. 

In 1980, Jim married and was sealed to Joan Ruth (Baird) Chambers in the Seattle Washington Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together, they shared 45 years of love and partnership.

Following in his father’s footsteps in the service station business, Jim initially partnered with him at Buffalo Bill Stations, Inc. Eventually, he became the sole owner and operator, successfully managing both Happy’s Corner (present-day location of Big Horn Federal) and Hobo Oil Co. (now Bailey Oil Fuel Depot on Big Horn Avenue). 

Before launching the first 24-hour self-service fuel depot, Jim and his father ran a bulk fuel delivery service, supplying fuel to farmers, ranchers, logging and oil operations across the Big Horn Basin. Jim relished the solitude of these trips and fondly remembered delivering fuel to customers along the Wood River, often stopping to enjoy a quiet lunch and listen to Paul Harvey.

Jim loved to read and learn new things and was an avid photographer and adventurer at heart. He was passionate about exploring ghost towns such as Bodie, California; Elkhorn, Montana; Bannack, Montana; Kirwin, Wyoming; and the mining ruins around Cooke City and Silver Gate. His family often joined him on these excursions, squeezed into his trusty blue CJ-7 Jeep. 

Jim’s love for the desert landscapes of southern Utah, especially the areas around Moab and Monticello, became a deep-seated passion. He found joy in uncovering the remnants of past civilizations, including pictographs and petroglyphs that told stories of ancient peoples. These family adventures, shared memories and lessons of discovery continue to live on in the hearts of his loved ones.

A man of deep faith, Jim believed in God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. He embodied their qualities of love, humility, gentleness and kindness. Known for his easygoing nature and warmth, Jim was a friend to all who knew him, offering support and encouragement. His relationships with family, friends and customers alike were filled with generosity and respect.

Jim was preceded in death by his grandmother, Manuelle Schultz, grandparents Walter Claire Nye and Vesper E. (Arnold) Nye, parents Walter R. Hoffman and Beverly J. (Nye) Hoffman and daughter Lisa (Chambers) Cortez.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Joan (Chambers/Baird) Hoffman; children Jared R. (Marla) Hoffman of Cody, Michelle (Hoffman) Weathered of Mansfield, Texas, Brian (Teresa) Chambers of Lovell and Holly (Andy) Lester of Florence, Kentucky; grandchildren Alexis Heaton, Giabella Hoffman, Teryn Cortez, Ashleigh Chambers, Sam “Samantha” Chambers, Brianna Chambers, Bryan (Savannah) Lester, Chadwick (Alicia) Lester, Nathan “Nate” Lester, Lettie Lester (currently serving in the Idaho Pocatello Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) and Nicholas “Nick” Lester; and 10 great-grandchildren, who brought him immense pride, joy and happiness.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, March 1, at 10 a.m. at Riverside Cemetery, located on Yellowstone Avenue in Cody. 

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered their support, prayers and kind words during this time. In lieu of flowers or donations, they kindly ask that you honor Jim’s legacy by performing a random act of kindness for someone in need. (Matthew 25:34-40)