Ernest Hoffman, 87, (better know as Ernie), of Mesquite, Nevada, passed away Friday, March 3, 2023 after a brief illness, at Las Vegas Sunrise Hospital.

Ernie was born March 13, 1935 in Reading, Pa. to the late Raymond A. and Mary E. Hoffman. He attended Muhlenberg Twp. Schools, and went on to serve in the U.S. Marines. 

After that stint, he decided to join the U.S. Air Force and served over 20 years, before retiring, and had a tour in Thailand during the Vietnam War. 

Post military Ernie found his love in the Theatre Industry, working and managing theatres such as Pitt, Cineplex, Lowes, and Century. His final theatre was Red Hills Cinema and his home in Mesquite. His career took him to various parts of the country, Arizona, Ohio, Utah, and a love for the West he settled in Nevada. 

In his later years, Ernie served on numerous Civic Committees and was known for his kind, helpful, and outspoken nature.  Ernie is survived by two sisters, Janet VanHoose of Bellefontaine, Ohio, and Anna May (Herbie) Coldren of Reading, Pa. Also several nieces and nephews, many dear friends including Mark Smith of Pa. 

A private celebration will be held in Mesquite in honor of Ernie and his caring and passion for “Kids for Sports Foundation.” They will also have a scholarship in his name annually. 

An internment of Ernie’s ashes will be in PA. at a later date, at Forest Hills Memorial Park near Reading, and honored by Veterans Assoc.