Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Father Robert “Bob” Hoeffner, a dedicated priest who served the people of God for over five decades, tragically lost his life along with his sister, Sally, in their home on January 28, 2024. Father Hoeffner, born in Queens, New York, on August 20, 1947, was one of eight children in his family. His journey towards priesthood began in his early years when he was influenced by three priests who were friends of his family. 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 career, Father Hoeffner served in various roles and ministries within the Catholic Church. He started his journey at Good Shepherd Parish in Orlando, followed by teaching at Bishop Moore Catholic High School. He then directed the San Pedro Spiritual Development Center in Winter Park, where he organized summer camps and retreats. In 1976, he became the director of liturgy and Bishop Thomas Grady’s master of ceremonies. During this time, he also began celebrating the TV Mass, a role he fulfilled for 28 years. He was highly regarded in his community and was named Vicar Forane, as well as a member of the Presbyteral Council.

In 1987, Father Hoeffner undertook the task of building a new parish in Orlando, which eventually became St. Isaac Jogues Parish. Starting with just 100 families celebrating Mass in a VFW hall, he dedicated the next 12 years to establishing and growing the parish. In 1998, he moved to St. Joseph Parish in Palm Bay, closer to his ailing parents, where he served as pastor until his retirement in 2016. During his time at St. Joseph Parish, Father Hoeffner made significant contributions, such as establishing a trilingual parish council and a chapter of the St. Vincent de Paul Society to support the needs of the poor.

Father Hoeffner celebrated his 50th anniversary to the priesthood in 2023 and reflected on his life of service with gratitude, stating, “I’ve spent 50 years doing absolutely incredible things and I am thankful to God for it.”

The news of Father Hoeffner's tragic death deeply saddened the Catholic community. Bishop John Noonan released a statement expressing his condolences and honoring Father Hoeffner's dedication and humility. He said, “Throughout his priesthood, Father Hoeffner served the people of God with compassion and humility. We will miss his grace-filled presence. We know he and his sister are received by the Lord with mercy and love.”

As the community mourns the loss of Father Hoeffner and his sister Sally, they also extend their prayers to their families. They also pray for the two police officers injured during the incident and express gratitude to the public servants who safeguard the community.

Funeral arrangements for Father Hoeffner and his sister have not been finalized at this time.