In the quiet environs of Chicago, Dorothy Hoffner, a centenarian who recently made headlines for her adventurous spirit and indomitable will, passed away peacefully in her sleep. At an astounding 104 years of age, Hoffner had become a symbol of vitality and enthusiasm when she undertook a skydive that could potentially have etched her name in the Guinness World Records as the oldest person to ever jump from an airplane.
Joe Conant, a close friend and nurse by profession shared his memories of this extraordinary woman fondly referred to as ‘Grandma’ per her request. He met Hoffner several years ago while working at Brookdale Lake View senior living community where he was providing care services to another resident. On Monday morning, staff members found Grandma’s lifeless body marking the end of an era filled with vivacity and zest for life.
Hoffner’s energy levels were nothing short of inspiring according to Conant. She was always mentally sharp and refused to let age define or confine her activities. “She was indefatigable. She just kept going,” he said on Tuesday reminiscing about his dear friend “She was not someone who would take naps in the afternoon or miss any function or dinner”. Her presence was constant; she lived every moment fully engaged with those around her.
On October 1st, barely ten days before she passed away, Hoffner embarked on what could be considered one of the most daring adventures undertaken by someone at such a venerable age – a tandem skydive that might have secured her place in history as the world’s oldest skydiver. The leap took place from an astonishing height of 13,500 feet (4,100 meters) at Skydive Chicago in Ottawa, Illinois, located 85 miles (140 kilometers) southwest of Chicago. Hoffner’s bold act was not just a testament to her courage but also an affirmation of her belief that “Age is just a number”.