MILFORD, NH

Richard C. Hoffman, 79, resident of Milford, NH, died on Monday, February 23, 2026, at Southern NH Medical Center, Nashua, NH.

He was born in Manchester, NH on December 11, 1946, a son of Harold and Norah (Cribbens) Hoffman. His mother, Norah, was born and raised in Sydney, England. Richard was born in Manchester and raised in Bedford and graduated from Manchester West High School, Class of 1965.

He met and married Diane E. Wirkkala in 1979 and together made their home in Milford for many years.

Richard had been employed by several companies such as JM Fields, Savages Clothing Store, Silva Mart, Riedels Supermarket and Schonlands. He had a lot of fun working in retail as he had a very friendly disposition, accompanied by a great sense of humor and enjoyed all the conversations with his many customers over the years.

He loved music, watching game shows, movies and most especially spending time with his family. Richard spent his early years during the summer months at the family camp at Baboosic Lake in Amherst. He and his friends enjoyed the Friday night dances at the Pavilion which is now the Town Beach. He also enjoyed playing the pinball machines. For many years Richard celebrated the Fourth of July with fireworks display at the lake.

Richard was predeceased by his wife, Diane E. (Wirkkala) Hoffman, who died January 10, 2026. They were married for 46 years.

Richard was a member of the Air National Guard for six years.

Family members include two sons, Christopher Hoffman of Amherst, NH, Scott Whipple and his wife Gina of Weare, NH: a younger brother, Brian Hoffman and his partner Nancy Kilbride of Whitefield, NH. Also, cousins, Nickalus, Jonathan and Simon of England

Funeral services are private. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please go to www.smith-heald.com