Remembrance: Former Rumson PolIce Chief, Longtime Rumsonite, Robert T. ‘RT’ Hoffman, 76

News of the July 18 death of former Rumson police chief and longtime Rumsonite Robert T. “RT” Hoffman prompted a flood of fond messages of condolence, remembrance and respect from locals and colleagues. He was 76.

“Bobby was a lifetime member of the Oceanic Fire Department and enjoyed fishing and crabbing on the Navesink River. He enjoyed all sports, especially, playing softball, basketball, tennis and was an avid N.Y. Giants fan. Most of all, Bobby with his generous heart loved being “Poppy” to his twelve grandchildren and two great grandchildren and spending time at the Ramp.”
Loved ones of Robert T. Hoffman in his obituary

“What a great guy and a Police Officer,” longtime Fair Havenite Carol Chandler said. “Bobby always had that smile, laugh, hugs, and always told us great stories . We’ll miss you, but we know your with BZ, Willie, Richie and the rest of the great Police Officers raising h—. Rest in Peace! Love to the Hoffman Family!”

The “great guy” sentiment was echoed hundreds of times over in messages.

“So saddened to get this news today,” Retired Sea Bright Police Chief Tom Johnson (and family). “Great Officer, wonderful guy and awesome friend. Many fun memories made together. Midnight shift chats at the bridge were the best. May you rest easy in the arms of the Angels Bob- see you on the other side.”

“RIP Chief Hoffman,” said former Fair Haven officer Bill Acker. “I am privileged to have worked in the next town with him. He was a great guy.“

He was also remembered as a great neighbor and friend.

“Very sad to hear the news of my neighbor Bob of 23 years years,” said Kim Ghezzi Healy. “He was one of the kindest, nicest and best neighbors anyone could have. I am blessed to have known him. May he Rest In Peace! Love to Jane and family.”

“Bob was a great man,” Mary Kavookjian said. “Always had a smile when I saw him. He’ll be missed by many.“

And the comments of remembrance continue to pour onto social media with Rumson Police Department’s announcement …

More about the chief …

Born to the late Henry and Mary Hoffman in Jersey City, Bobby graduated from Rumson Fair Haven Regional High School (RFH) in 1962. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving from 1963 to 1967 during the Vietnam War. After his service, he returned to Rumson and received an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from Brookdale Community College and then went on to serve the Rumson Police Department for 31 years, eventually becoming chief.

He was predeceased by his son Robert W. Hoffman ( 1992 ), four brothers and two sisters.

Robert is survived by: his beloved wife of 54 years, Jane; three children, Catherine Hoffman Francis ( Bernard ), Michael D. Hoffman ( Erica ) and Laura Maldonado (Benjamin Jr), his beloved “little” brother, Joseph Hoffman (Lynn); 12 grandchildren, Alyssa, Jessica, Nicholas, Benjamin III, Gillian, Ethan, Ciaran, Michal, Kevin, Makayla, Natalie and Ian; two great grandchildren, McKenna and Jonathan; and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

All services are private and under the direction of the John E. Day Funeral Home of Red Bank. There will be a memorial service scheduled at a later date In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Disabled AmericanVeterans or Wounded Warrior Project.