James Edward Hoffmann, born January 31, 1937 in Newark, New Jersey, died February 10, 2015 at the age of 78, in Houston, Texas. He is survived by his wife, Loretta Russell Hoffmann, to whom he was married for 36 years; sister Dorothy Ormsby; son Drew Hoffmann (Catherine), daughters Tracey Berry Femiano (Anthony), Susan Hoffmann Silvers (Roy), Jane Hoffmann Van Heest (Scott), Jennifer Hoffmann Fulcher (Douglas), and Shaun Berry Pettine (Stefan); Grandchildren Catherine Muglia (Anthony), Elizabeth Zaczyk (Michael), Sarah Femiano, Timothy Van Heest (Carley), Taylor, Janet and Caitlyn Van Heest; Lauren, Henry, Pvt2 John and Madeline Pettine; Colleen, Courtney, Kaylee, McKenzie and Jonathan Fulcher and Corinn McCloskey (James), Colton and Jordan Keeter; Great-grandchildren Joseph Zaczyk, Sofia Keeter, James Edward Muglia, and Sofia Zaczyk; nephews Daniel and Charles Ormsby. He was predeceased by his parents Paul and Dorothy Hoffmann, brother Paul, and daughter Deirdre Berry. A man of many interests, he was considered by many a walking encyclopedia. He especially enjoyed cooking, fishing, and the study of mushrooms. A voracious reader he always read several books a week. He was a Layreader in his church. His academic education included undergraduate and graduate degrees in chemical engineering. He was employed in extractive metallurgical research by AMAX Corporation and Exxon Minerals Corporation for a total of 29 years. Since 1983, as President of James E. Hoffmann and Associates Company, he has provided consulting assistance to the extractive metallurgical industry. His experience includes extensive research in electrolytic refining of copper, nickel, zinc, chromium, manganese and lead as well as in the process design of numerous electrolytic slimes treatment facilities and precious metals refineries. He was also a specialist in the extraction and refining of rare and precious metals, and is the author of numerous papers and patents. A Licensed Professional Engineer in the state of Texas, he was also a member of many metallurgical societies and organizations. A Memorial Service will be held for him on 21 March 2015, 11 AM, at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 15015 Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas77079. Donations in his memory may be given to Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Ovarian Cancer Research, and Doctors Without Borders.