Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

The Catholic community in Palm Bay, Florida, is mourning the loss of Father Robert "Bob" Hoeffner and his sister, Sally, who were tragically murdered in their home on Sunday, January 28th. Father Hoeffner, born on August 20, 1947, in Queens, NY, dedicated his life to serving the people of God with compassion and humility.

Father Hoeffner's journey towards priesthood began in Fort Pierce, where his family owned citrus groves. Influenced by three priests who were friends of the family, he started considering the priesthood in middle school. At the age of 14, he entered St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami, followed by St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach. He was ordained on April 28, 1973, by Bishop William D. Borders at St. Anastasia Parish in Fort Pierce for the Diocese of Orlando.

Throughout his 50 years of priesthood, Father Hoeffner made significant contributions to the Catholic community in Orlando and Palm Bay. After his ordination, he served at Good Shepherd Parish in Orlando and later taught at Bishop Moore Catholic High School. He also directed the San Pedro Spiritual Development Center, organizing summer camps and retreats.

In 1976, Father Hoeffner was appointed as the director of liturgy and ecumenism for the Diocese of Orlando. Reflecting on his initial lack of knowledge in these areas, he humorously said, "I was asked to come to the chancery as the director of liturgy and ecumenism – neither of which I had a clue about!" He then pursued a degree in liturgical studies at the Catholic University of America, becoming an expert in the field.

For nine years, Father Hoeffner served as the director of liturgy and Bishop Thomas Grady's master of ceremonies. During this time, he also celebrated the TV Mass, a role he fulfilled for 28 years. In addition, he served as the Vicar Forane and was a member of the Presbyteral Council, contributing to the spiritual guidance of the diocese.

In 1987, Father Hoeffner faced a new challenge when he was tasked with building a new parish in Orlando. Starting with just one hundred families celebrating Mass in a VFW hall, he dedicated the next 12 years to establishing St. Isaac Jogues Parish. His hard work and dedication paid off, as the parish grew and flourished.

In 1998, Father Hoeffner had an opportunity to move closer to his parents, who were in poor health, and became the pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Palm Bay. He served the parish and school community with unwavering commitment until his retirement in 2016. During his time at St. Joseph Parish, Father Hoeffner established a trilingual parish council, ensuring equal representation from the Anglo, Hispanic, and Filipino communities. He also started a chapter of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, which provided assistance to those in need.

Father Hoeffner's dedication to his vocation and his love for his community will be greatly missed. Bishop John Noonan of the Diocese of Orlando expressed his condolences, saying, "We mourn with the St. Joseph Catholic community in Palm Bay over the tragic loss of these four lives as we pray for the repose of their souls and extend our prayers to their families. Throughout his priesthood, Father Hoeffner served the people of God with compassion and humility. We will miss his grace-filled presence."

As the community mourns the loss of Father Robert Hoeffner and his sister Sally, they also extend their prayers to the two police officers who were injured during the incident. Bishop Noonan also expressed gratitude to the public servants who safeguard the community, acknowledging their dedication and bravery.

Father Hoeffner's 50 years of service leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of those he touched. His dedication to his faith, his commitment to his community, and his humble spirit will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him. May he and his sister Sally rest in peace, knowing they are received by the Lord with mercy and love.