Captain Roger L. Hoffman, affectionately known as ‘Cappie’ by his cherished granddaughter Veronica Liogier-Weyback, was born on November 13, 1953, to Richard and Mary Louise Hoffman, both of whom have since passed. He departed this world on November 26, 2023. As the winds of time carried him beyond the horizon, Captain Hoffman’s legacy remains eternally tethered to the seas he sailed.
Graduating from the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point in 1976, Captain Hoffman embarked on a distinguished career as a merchant mariner, working for Waterman Steamship Corporation as part of the Military Sealift Command. For the last 20 years of his career, he served as the revered Captain of the USNS SS Sgt. Matej Kocak, leaving an indelible mark on those who sailed under his command. His leadership at sea was a beacon, guiding those under his command with unwavering strength, kindness, and wisdom.
Captain Hoffman was a proud member of the International Organization of Masters, Mates, and Pilots since his graduation from Kings Point, embodying the spirit of tradition and transformation. He was proud to have traveled the world, inspiring a sense of wanderlust in his daughters who will forever cherish the tradition of bringing home currency from all countries traveled. He retired at the end of 2010, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and dedication to his craft built upon camaraderie and professionalism.
Yet, amidst the vastness of his professional achievements, Captain Hoffman found his true pride in being the father and grandfather to his beloved daughters and granddaughter. Roger, survived by Katie Liogier-Weyback, with husband Rick Liogier-Weyback, and their daughter Veronica of Wellington, Florida, as well as his other daughter, Kerri Hoffman of Manly, Australia, were the cherished treasures of his heart.
In the wake of his passing, Captain Roger L. Hoffman is also survived by his five siblings: Rick Hoffman (Gail), Janice Watts (Pat), Katherine McKinnell (Tom), Robert Hoffman (Mary Allison), and Dr. Jeannie Hoffman (Peter Moorehouse). His loss is felt deeply by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, all of whom were touched by the warmth, wisdom, and camaraderie he brought to their lives.
Veronica, Katie, Rick, and Kerri express their deepest gratitude, saying, “Your unwavering love, exemplary guidance, and the profound impact you had on our lives make us endlessly grateful. You were not just a father, role model, and grandfather — you were the absolute best we could have ever wished for. Thank you for being our source of strength, wisdom, and endless love.” They also wish to extend their gratitude to Roger’s very best friend, Jamie Wilson, his closest confidant, for the steadfast friendship and continuous support throughout the years.
May his legacy, like a ship navigating the boundless oceans, continue to inspire those who follow. Fair winds and following seas, Captain Hoffman, as you sail into eternity, embraced by the memories and the endearing nickname ‘Cappie.’
A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at Altmeyer Funeral Home on December 14, 2023, at 1 p.m. Katie and Kerri will host a beachside gathering immediately following from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Chix on the Beach and invite all who loved Roger to attend.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that tax-deductible donations be made to the Neurobehavioral Hospital Foundation, Inc. and mailed to 4905 Park Ridge Blvd, Boynton Beach, FL 33426.
May he rest in eternal peace, his spirit forever embraced by the vastness of the seas and the memories he left in his wake.
