Obituary
Guest Book
1999 El Camino Real
Oceanside, California
Steven Andrew Hofstadler (age 48) of Vista, CA passed on to be with the Lord after spending a perfect day with his family on a beach in San Diego this January 18, 2014. Cause of death was an aortic dissection. Steve was born in Albuquerque, NM on May 19, 1965. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Nina and their two boys, Justin (17) and Shane (14), parents, Hugo and Gail Hofstadler, brother, Paul, sister in law, Joyce and nephews, Tommy and James, Father in Law, Richard Moots, brother in law, Carey Moots, and sister in laws, Rita Moots Skinner and Erin Moots and many nieces and nephews (Callahan, Liam, Clare, Cera, Stephen, and Killian).
After attending Del Norte High School and the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, Steven received his PhD from University of Texas in Austin and became a research scientist. He spent his early career at Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratory in Richland, Washington. He was most recently serving as the Divisional Vice President of Research & Development for Ibis Biosciences, Inc. a division of Abbott Molecular, Inc. Steven had a very successful career which included traveling all over the world to give talks and writing hundreds of papers. He was issued over 50 patents, and received several industry awards for his research including induction into the prestigious Volwiler Society at Abbott. He found his work in drug discovery and pathogen detection particularly rewarding but not as much fun as experimentation with explosives which was necessary on some of his government contract work.
Steve was a kind, loving, generous Christian person. He was an inspirational husband, father, brother, and son. He always found a way to bring a smile to the face of everyone he knew. He possessed a wonderful sense of humor and positive attitude. He truly lived life to its fullest. He was active in youth baseball, community service, charitable giving, and chocolate consumption. Recently, he took an interest in collecting and repairing antique watches which still didn't help the family get to church on time.
Steve's Celebration of Life (Memorial) Service will be this Sunday, Jan 26th at 4:30pm at North Coast Church Carlsbad located at 2310 Camino Vida Roble, Carlsbad, CA 92011. Phone: 760-724-6700. Attire is "joyful colors". No need to send flowers. Steve would rather you support one of your favorite charities or one of his: Rady Children's Hospital (3020 Children's Way, SD 92123 Phone: 858-576-1700), Miracle League of San Diego (1343 Stratford Ct., Del Mar, CA 92014. Phone: 858-964-2222), and Operation Hope (PO Box 3273, Vista, CA 92084. Phone: 760-536-3880).
Arrangements under the direction of Eternal Hills Memorial Park, Mortuary, and Crematory, Oceanside, California.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
June 9, 2014
Chris Smith
I had the opportunity to work with Steve - great guy! I'm so very sorry for your loss...
March 18, 2014
Matt Lasater
I had the privilege of working with Steve in graduate school. He was a great teacher, always fun and patient. I am greatly saddened by the news of his passing.
My deepest condolences are with you and your family.
February 6, 2014
Barbara Lopez
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your beautiful family.
February 3, 2014
Mike G
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Hofstadler family. Steve was a wonderful person, brilliant scientist, patriot, and friend. He truly made a difference to those around him, through his friendships, his family, his hobbies and his work. Those of us who knew him are better off for having the privilege. He will always be missed. More importantly, he will always be remembered.
January 31, 2014
Liz Lloyd
I was so sad to hear this news. I had the privilege of working with Steve when he was inducted into the Volwiler Society. He was so brilliant, kind and thoughtful. My sympathies to you for your loss.
January 30, 2014
Russ Grant
Steve was a wonderful blend of supremely intelligent scientist, passionate advocate of quality, incredibly friendly in all interactions and a gentleman, a true mans man. My sincerest condolences and best wishes to his family in this trying time. God bless you Steve.
January 29, 2014
Vicki Campbell
Dear Nina, Justin, and Shane,
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. I had the privilege of working in the same lab as Steve in grad school in Austin, TX. He was so smart, so generous with his time, and simply joyful to be around. I remember how much he would light up when he would talk about playing volleyball with Nina; he was so in love!
Often before conferences, everyone would be working in the lab until the wee hours of the morning; normally people would get tired and a maybe a little discouraged, but not when Steve was there. He always kept the place lively with his antics and his smile. And the comment about his consumption of chocolate is totally true! He used to keep a drawer full of chocolate bars because sometimes he'd be so busy working that he'd forget to eat. (I was always amazed he could stay so skinny!) Anyway, one day our professor discovered that Steve had chocolate in his desk and got into the habit of helping himself. It wasn't long before Steve caught him and gave him the moniker "Snicker-butt". Thankfully our professor had a great sense of humor and loved Steve, too, even when Steve photoshopped his head coming out of a cartoon mass spectrometer. That photo stayed up on the lab door for years to follow. Steve was a wonderful man, scientist, and friend, and I am sure he loved you all dearly. My heart and my prayers go out to you.
Vicki Campbell (Katy, TX)
January 28, 2014
Mimi Roy
My heart goes out to Steve's family and friends. He will be dearly missed.
Steve and I met in 1999 to collaborate on a project that required his expertise in mass spectrometry. His enthusiasm for this science and his inclusive and encouraging attitude was key in my decision to change gears and dive into mass spec full time. He was an unusual mix of high professional/scientific success and humility. A great example and a mentor.
Although I never met his family, from the day we met until the last time we spoke, every time I saw him at a conference he would mention his wife and sons with a big smile on his face and a twinkle in his eyes. He was an inspiration and always will be.
May he rest in peace.
January 28, 2014
Ravinder SINGH
Very Sad day for me.
What a loss to the family and community?
Very intelligent and enterpreneur guy and was very inspirational.
Ravinder Singh Mayo Clinic
January 28, 2014
Michael Freitas
My sincerest condolences to Steve's Family. Steve was an exceptional colleague and a brilliant scientist. He will be sorely missed.
January 28, 2014
Eric Milgram
Although I didn't know Steve on a highly personal level, I always admired his impressive intellect, professionalism, and kind nature that he showed to his colleagues in the field of FTICR mass spectrometry. He will be missed.
January 28, 2014
Vicki Wysocki
Steve was a great scientist and a joy to work with. I offer my condolences to his family and friends.
Vicki Wysocki, Ohio State University (Univ of Arizona when overlapping with Steve on the PCR mass spec work)
January 26, 2014
Wendy Roland
The last time I saw Steve I complimented him on his weight loss. He was obviously very proud of himself. He looked great, however I had to tease him because he was still wearing his fat pants!! Those things were swimming on him. I don't know how they stayed up!
Steve was funny, smart, kind, just an all around fantastic person. Anyone who had the privilege to know him, will always remember him as the epitome of the best husband, father, coworker and friend. I am thankful to have known Steve. He will be greatly missed.
January 26, 2014
Lisa Lowe Hiller
Our hearts go out to Nina, Justin, Shane and all those that know and love him. What a great loss to society, science, and more importantly his family. All our regrets, thoughts and prayers. Dr. Lisa Lowe and the UCSD Emergency Department staff.
January 26, 2014
The Pokorny Family
What we remember the most about Steve is his infectious smile and his love for his family. We will always cherish the moments we spent time together as one big happy Titanium family. Nina, Justin, and Shane: we are all here for you.
January 26, 2014
Charmaine and Dean
We didn't get the opportunity to hang out with Steve near as much as would have liked but each time we did he was gracious, and funny, especially while wearing a costume, which, I believe, was at least half the times we saw him. We will certainly miss his presence at our next costumed gathering.
January 26, 2014
Steve's joy for life and love for his family will forever live in our hearts. He modeled what a father and husband should be to his family: a good provider and an even greater friend. God blessed our family when He introduced you and your incredible family into our lives.
Art, Kim, Mika, and Nik Carrasco
January 26, 2014
The Tellez Family
We've enjoyed all of the activities the kids have shared together. In the good times and the hard times we are here to support you. Your dad and husband have left a legacy in the positive way he lived and in the wonderful boys he raised. Our thoughts are with you.
January 26, 2014
Steve: chivalrous, witty, smart, funny, passionate and a sincerely dedicated, loving and supportive husband and father. It seemed like the Hofstadler's had this impenetrable bond. We truly believe that Nina, Justin and Shane will always feel Steve's very strong presence in their lives. And a guarantee he will never miss a ball game!!!
Lots of love, Heidi, Jeff, Kyle and Casey Christiansen (Reds)
January 25, 2014
Walter and María Elena Ramazzini
Our deepest sympathies. To You and the children.
January 25, 2014
Renee DeVries-Roeder
I have known of the family for many years through St. Andrew Pres. Church in Albuq. It is my prayer that God would give you comfort during this time of loss. May you feel God's arms around you and may memories bring renewed blessings of Steven being a part of your lives.
January 25, 2014
Kimberly Boucher
Your family is truly in my heart and my joy of knowing your family has impacted my life more than you know. My deepest sympathy to you and know that although I can't be there in person I send you virtual hugs from Albuquerque. May Steve rest in peace. Kim Boucher
January 25, 2014
Greg & Lisa Sandoval & Family
May Steven rest in peace, our deep condolences to the Hofstadler family and our hope for healing in this difficult time.
January 24, 2014
The Reinhardt Family
With deepest sympathy, your family is in in our prayers.
January 24, 2014
Christopher DeMenno
January 24, 2014
Our deepest sympathies. Manuel and Justin started kindergarten together and I've had the pleasure to know this wonderful family through school, scouts and baseball. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jantine and Manny
January 24, 2014
Chad Hollister
Hofstadler Family, words cannot express how sad I am for your loss. I was blessed to know Steve through his children Justin and Shane. Whether it was attending their baseball games or opening up his home for Small Group events, Steve loved his kids and it showed that they were a priority in his life. He was always very generous with his home and with his time. Steve helped raise two wonderful young men who just adored him. Steve will be missed greatly, but his legacy remains in Justin and Shane who have a great example of a father, a man, and Christian to follow after.
January 24, 2014
Kelly Walsh
I first met Steve in March of 2013 at the Hofstadler home in California. I felt instantly welcome and connected to their family. His gregarious nature and friendliness was infectious, and I was awed by the genuine love that surrounded the household. His legacy is certainly passed on through Shane and Justin, as they are two of the most composed and luminous teenagers I've ever met. If I had one word to describe my experience with Steve and the Hofstadler family, it's "smile." I will remember the smiles on everyone's faces (mine included). I didn't know Steve for very long, but I will remember him for the rest of my years on this planet. Thank you, Steve, for being an inspiration to me. Peace and love to Nina, Shane, and Justin...you are greatly loved.
January 24, 2014
Darla Rorie Montano
My twin and I have been blessed to have memories with Steven as far back as we can remember. We grew up next door to him, are the same age and I endearingly call him ‘our brother from another mother'. I'm thankful for the precious memories that we shared with Steven; exploring the neighborhood, playing cops and robbers, learning to ride bikes, starting school, devouring Gail's delicious chocolate cake, birthday parties and even mistakenly being called triplets and so much more. He has grown to be such an amazing man and has made such a mark on this world and in the hearts of anyone who knew him. He has left a profound and powerful legacy to his boys. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten. My heart and prayers go out to the entire family.
January 24, 2014
John Lawton
Nina and family, May God comfort you during this difficult time. Nancy and I always enjoyed our conversations with you and Steve at church, baseball, and when we would see you at social events. Please accept our deepest condolences and if there's anything we can do please let us know.
January 24, 2014
Elizabeth Dulaney
I only talked to Steve once, but he seemed like a great man. It was at your family home for one of the Pipeline Junior High EPIC Leadership Team meetings. He was very kind and happy to open up his home to Shane's youth group as a service to the ministry and he also talked about being concerned for Justin because he had been sick lately. Throughout the conversation he showed his love for his kids and his desire to be involved in their lives. He must have been a wonderful man.
January 23, 2014
Miriam V
It's one thing to "let" your wife volunteer in her community, and quite another to be by her side. How lovely that Steve was by your side in support of the work you and your family did to not only help our family, but other community efforts as well. For the help your family provided, we are eternally grateful. You are all in our prayers during this sorrowful time. God bless you +
January 23, 2014
Carissa Satchell
Steve was a man that always made me super happy. It seemed like nothing could ever make him upset and he always loved being around the family and children. Everytime I saw him he always had a huge smile on his face. I could tell that he would do anything for his family or anyone else. He was so sweet and helpful with everything and always gave you the best he had. Hearing about his death broke my heart because I know how much he meant to everyone and I still cannot fathom what happened. My prayers are with the family and just remember to keep God in your hearts. Steve will always be watching you guys and will never miss a moment of your divine lives. xoxoxo.
January 23, 2014
Natasha & Rob Sebolt
Steve will truly be missed by all. My fondest memory is that of Steve standing by his grill in his backyard being the "Grill Master". Man knew his bbq. Rob and I were so lucky to have spent the two years in Cali getting to know him better. We are better people for it. He was warm, caring, and was all about being totally vested in his boys and his family. We love you guys and are going to deeply, deeply miss Steve. Much love to you and tight hugs Nina, Justin and Shane!
January 23, 2014
Christina Echols
Nina, Justin & Shane, I'm so saddened and heartbroken on your loss. I was proud to call Steve my friend and I will miss him very much. We have lost one of the kindest and funnest people I have ever had the privilege to know. I will always remember how he didn't mind trying something new, or care about being goofy. He was W.O.W. (With-out Whythm)...Ya Man! Steve will be truly missed... Love you guys! Christina
January 23, 2014
Donald and Mary Barrows
Steve was a brilliant scientist who had the ability to explain his work to me, a real dummy. We loved him dearly and had the deepest respect for him as a father and husband. My prayers are for Nina, Justin and Shane. But also for all of his relatives and friends who must carry on while missing him sorely
January 23, 2014
Christine Ellis
Steve was a wonderful man, a devoted father and husband, not to mention a really funny guy who enjoyed every moment he was in and always had a big smile on his face! What a blessing Steve's life was to everyone who knew him and through his work, a blessing to many who benefit from his genius. He had a way about him that was charming, warm, generous and fun.
Me and the boys will forever be grateful for his hospitality throughout the years, his love and generosity and the great example he set for the world in his kindness and his walk with God. We are so blessed that we were able to spend so much time with Steve and his family during the Christmas holiday. He was so happy. He told me how this has been the best year of his life; that he was able to spend more time than ever with his family and enjoy all that he worked so hard to provide. He almost got tears in his eyes when we played beach volleyball with the boys; he said it was always his dream to be able to do this.
God has blessed us all in knowing Steve. My deepest condolences to Nina, Justin and Shane, family and friends. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed. Love you all! Christine
January 23, 2014
Dyana Preti
Our loss is Heaven's gain of a very special man. Steve was a great husband and father who shared his love, kindness, and humor throughout the community. May God bless the entire Hofstadler family with peace and comfort. Steve will surely be missed by all who knew him.
January 23, 2014
Mark Phelan
We will always remember Steve's enduring smile and unending goodwill to those around him. We were lucky to know him, Nina, Justin, and Shane personally and will always appreciate the contributions he made to our lives and I will not forget the contributions of the 2012 "First Family of RBVLL" to the community. I am certain that Justin and Shane will carry his legacy and exemplify those same characteristics.
January 23, 2014
Lettie De Anda
I had the honor to know Steve. He lived his life to the fullest and enjoyed all he did. He loved seafood and great music. My mind is filled with memories of hanging out with him and his family at parties, the beach, or just enjoying his personality and fun attitude. My life is truly greater for having known such a wonderful man.
January 23, 2014
Barb Miltenberger
The Hofstadlers were our first friends when we moved from Northern California to Oceanside. We had the pleasure of moving in across the street from them and became fast family friends. There were lots of celebrations, events, excursions, etc. together over the years that we won't forget. Steve had a very easy way about him, and was sure to tell a story to get people laughing. He was ever so intelligent and successful, but did not present himself to the world that way. He was just kind, caring, funny, involved and all-around great guy Steve. He has been an example of what it is to be a good father, husband and community member. May we all strive to live up to his standards. Our family is going to miss him dearly, especially on Monday nights. Rest in peace with our Lord Steve, and we look forward to being reunited again one day. Maybe we could request to be neighbors again?
January 23, 2014
Theresa Clark
We met Steve when the boys were in Cub Scouts together, remember how much fun we all had and now seeing Justin and Shane as well as my Matthew grow into young men.....Steve will always hold a special place in our hearts. So sorry to have lost such a wonderful Father, Friend and Husband.
January 23, 2014
Michael Otero
Steve will always hold a special place in my heart. Old friend, I will always miss you.
My deepest sympathy to Nina, Justin, Shane, Gail, Hugo, Paul, Joyce and the rest of the Hofstadler and Moots family.
January 22, 2014
Jacque Jones
What an wonderful person - brilliant and kind with a great sense of humor and love of life. I was honored to spend a brief time with Steve and his family in preparation for his induction into The Volwiler Society. My video crew and I captured Steve in action at work and with his colleagues and it is a day I remember well. It was filled with laughter and astonishment - astonishment at Steve's amazing scientific achievements. While working with Justin and Shane and meeting Nina it was apparent that Steve was a caring and involved Dad who had created a truly loving family. I feel lucky to have met him. My heart goes out to his family and colleagues.
January 22, 2014
Jeff Tolley
Through sadness I have found the pride I have in knowing Steve. He was a team mate and a friend, and I am grateful for the wonderful memories and that we got to share them at our high school reunion last summer.
January 22, 2014
David Muddiman
Steve was an amazing man, an inspiration to everyone who knew him. He always had a huge smile, a positive winning attitude, a kind soul, and one of the most intelligent people I have had the good fortune to know in this world. I know he loved his wife and sons with great passion. I will never forget the first time we met nor the last. Steve always made every meeting memorable. You are missed and I pray for your family. It was an honor to know you and I thank you for helping me build myself as a person and a scientist. You saw in me things that others did not, including myself. Thank you Steve! You made very outstanding contributions in this world by touching so many people and changing their lives in such profound and positive ways.
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