Isla Mae Hoffman

Isla Mae Hoffman, age 97, of River Falls, formerly of New Ulm, died at Prescott Nursing and Rehab on June 24, 2026.

Isla was born on September 21, 1928, in Avon, South Dakota, the daughter of Everette and Jesse (Martin) Jarman. She was raised in South Dakota and graduated from Doland High School before taking classes at Dakota Wesleyan College in Mitchell. Shortly thereafter, she was united in marriage to Robert Hoffman at Doland Methodist Church by Isla's father, who himself was a minister.

Isla was a woman with a sense of taste and style. She began working at J.C. Penney's once her children were all in school. She started in sales, but it quickly became evident that her talents could be used in even greater ways. She went on to work in various positions in the office and eventually as office manager. Isla assisted in establishing the new J.C. Penney store in Hibbing, Minnesota.

Isla was strong-willed and carried a deep set of convictions. Her two great loves were music and theater. She was a gifted pianist who could play beautifully. She belonged to several choirs, including a bell choir. Her favorite music included classical selections and show tunes. Not only could she carry a tune, she could dance as well. In fact, she learned tap dancing in her 80s. She also loved theatrical productions and took great pride in helping with the New Ulm Children's Summer Theater and New Ulm Senior Center performances. When outside, she enjoyed mowing the lawn, enjoying the beautiful flower beds and gardens that Robert planted. She loved walking, and few could keep up with her pace.

She is survived by her children, Susan (Roger) Pesheck of River Falls, Allen (Patti) Hoffman of St. Paul, and Robin (Curtis) Wickman of Horace, ND; her grandchildren, Alyssa (Mike), Katheryn, Molly (Joel), Laura (Christopher), Alex (Leah), Christopher (Natalie), Kelsey, and Jordon; her great-grandchildren, Cameron, Elliot, Amelia, Eleanor, Simon, Evelyn, Alice, and Jillian; her great-great-grandchild, Daunte; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; her siblings, Wayne (Kay), Wesley (Lorraine), Meredith (Dorothy and Betty), Irene (Harold and Floyd), Eunice (Delmer), and Darlene (Richard and John). Her two beloved pets, Gina and Zoie, also preceded her in death.

A memorial service will be held at 11AM, Friday, August 14th at the O'Connell Family Funeral Home, 225 South Third Street, River Falls, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery in Hibbing, Minnesota. Memorials are preferred to the discretion of the family.

Arrangements are entrusted to O'Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of River Falls. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-425-5644.