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Updated: 10:49 PM Jul 6, 2009
Share Your Memories of "Hoffland"
John Hoffland was a man who loved to tell a "quick story." We'd like to hear your stories about John. Posted: 12:28 PM Jul 6, 2009Reporter: WEAU 13 News staff Email Address: news@weau.com |
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Posted by: Keith Brown
Location: KMSP-TV
on Jul 7, 2009 at 04:44 PM
John and I worked together at WCCO-TV nearly 30 years ago and I still remember John's infectious laugh and sense of humor. I also remember John's willingness to teach and pass his knowledge on to the news room rookies. John was as much a teacher as he was a News Director. The world of Journalism has lost a good man and we have all lost a good friend. My heart goes out to John’s family and we wish them well.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Jul 7, 2009 at 04:30 PM
I was fortunate to work under two news Directors at WEAU: Gil Buettner, when I was a weather intern, and John Hoffland, who hired me as weekend weather anchor. Both John and Gil had their own way of getting the best out of you, but it was John's "iron fist in a velvet glove" approach that I remember most. My fondest memory from WEAU was when Willard Scott of the "Today" show was in Minneapolis, doing weather promos with weather anchors from all the NBC stations in the region. I was supposed to cover for the noon show, but my alarm clock didn't go off. After not hearing my phone ring about 30 times, I finally picked up and heard John saying, "Aren't you doing the noon weather?" This was at 10:45 a.m. I made it to the station and got everything ready just in time to sit down on the set and do the weather. John's only comment to me was "Next time, make sure your hair is dry, O.K.?” That was how John was with all of us: Fixing what needed fixing, with politeness and respect for all.
Posted by: Jim Cullen
Location: WTMJ-TV Milwaukee
on Jul 7, 2009 at 02:59 PM
I know this has been said before by other, but the way he would look at me and say, " Hey Culley, got a minute for a quick story?" will stay with me forever. The word that comes to mind about John is genuine. I can tell you after being in this business for over 28 years there isnt'a more genuine person in TV than JT. I learned as much about life as I did about covering news working for John. He didn't hire me as I came in 1984 while John was on hiatus at WITI in Milwaukee. However, when John came back in 1986 he treated me as though he had picked me to me his assignment editor. That too doesn't happen often in this industry. John was directly responsible for helping me get my first job in Milwaukee 20 years ago. I was always thankful to him for that. John took a chance on a second Cullen last fall when he hired my son fresh out of college. There wasn't a better person for Matt to work for in his first job. JT we will miss you. I guess God finally had time for a quick story.
Posted by: Tom Ziegler
Location: Minneapolis
on Jul 7, 2009 at 01:19 PM
I never met John face-to-face but talked with him almost every day. He at WEAU and me at WCCO TV. We sized each other up in our first phone conversation in about 30 seconds and I knew this guy was wired the right way and he'd been aroundthe block a time or two. We could speak in a form of verbal shorthand about news leads or shooting help or reporter/producer candidates for his shop or ours. I think he could get his point made in 45 seconds that would take most people 10 minutes. When the sky was falling, John was steady at the tiller. Just what you'd expect from an old pro newsman. The guy was a credit to his profession, station and community. Our thoughts here go out to his family both at home and over at the station.
Posted by: dick dionne
Location: the villages,fl
on Jul 7, 2009 at 12:19 PM
All of the non related to work stories which started off with "got a minute".I'll truly miss those times just sitting in my office just bs'ing.
Posted by: John Noonan
Location: Alexandria, VA
on Jul 7, 2009 at 09:36 AM
I worked at WEAU in the early 80's. I did not work directly for John but directed some of the newscasts. John was remarkable. My thoughts and prayers to John's family and the WEAU family.
Posted by: Chris Larsen
Location: River Falls, WI
on Jul 6, 2009 at 10:33 PM
I arrived at WEAU like many others. A young college grad looking for his first job in television. John took a chance on me. After leaving to pursue other interests, John took another chance on me. When I think all of the opportunities John gave me to try different roles and projects, the word “optimist” really doesn’t do John justice. I remember him as a man who allowed people to make mistakes and learn from them. That is all you can ask from a mentor. I spoke with John a few months ago. I called him about a future project. As always, John delivered with advice and names of people and places I should pursue. Then he noticed the voice of my young son. The conversation switched from business to family. He was always proud of Penny and Luke or as John always called him, Duke. After family discussion, the call ended the way so many Hoffland calls end, "gotta go", CLICK. It’s sad but fitting that John didn’t give me time to say goodbye that day. So here it is, goodbye John.
Posted by: Kim Olson Kosmatka
Location: Duluth, MN
on Jul 6, 2009 at 07:58 PM
John meant so much to so many people. I'm trying to put this into words, but it's difficult. Personally, John allowed me, as an intern, to report, produce and anchor the news. This, as you can imagine, was not the most popular decision among the seasoned veterans in the newsroom, but he stood by that decision, and I was grateful for that. I can honestly say, as an intern, and later as a full-timer, I ALWAYS looked forward to coming to work. Every day. Few people can say that about their place of employment, but I bet there are many from the WEAU newsroom who can! About three years ago, as a "retired" journalist/stay-home mom, I ran into John. He asked about my kids, and even invited me to bring them in for a tour of the station. I wish I had done so. John Hoffland was a top-notch journalist, and a top-notch guy. Penny and Lukas, my thoughts are with you.
Posted by: Bruce King
Location: Eau Claire, WI
on Jul 6, 2009 at 07:54 PM
"B.King..Hoffland" would usually greet me, often on a day off, when John needed someone to cover a story, fill in for this person or that person, or as he told me once:"Would Courtney mind getting strapped in a car seat and taking a nice ride to Sparta...in the Live Van." I was able to talk him out of that, but rarely would I ever say no to John. I have had three mentors in my life, my father, Norm Herman, and John T. Hoffland. He came from the old school of get the story, be fair, be factual and make it important to the viewer. I have lost a friend, but will forever treasure John's constant wit, his sense of fair play, and his unwaivering commitment to the integrity of the journalistic craft. I have told many a person that wanted to get into the business to seek John out, sit down, and take notes. No time soon will we, or future generations of reporters, have the opportunity, or the honor, of working with, and learning their craft from,one of the very best. My prayers to Penny & Lucas
Posted by: Kelly Slifka
Location: Austin, TX
on Jul 6, 2009 at 07:29 PM
Hoffland, my first News Director, and one of my best. I was a young kid from small, I mean small town Minnesota, but John took me in...he loved weather...I loved weather. WEAU covered a large area of Western Wisconsin...I knew some of the towns, but not like I knew Minnesota. John told me to learn all of Western Wisconsin. He even took me on a little trip in his own car around the Chippewa Valley. John knew what was important. Every morning, John would pop in the back door by the Weather Center and comment on the weather. I knew he loved weather and I really appreciated that. I was young...I didn't really understand the television business at the time. As a News Director, John knew it. He didn't like consultants or research so much. John was a journalist that appreciated good stories that related to the community. We need more Hofflands. My condolences to the Hoffland family.
Posted by: G. Jeffrey Gillis
Location: Shawano
on Jul 6, 2009 at 07:13 PM
I first met John when I was Communications Director for Milwaukee Mayor Henry Maier when he was working at WITI (Ch 6). As a professional, he was unsurpassed and as a man unmatched. His honesty and integrity defined his being and I know his life made a difference to so many people. In our line of work, we could never call ourselves friends, but I can say he earned my respect and admiration, in Milwaukee and Eau Claire. I will miss him and send my sympathies to his family and friends.
Posted by: Matt Kummer
Location: Indianapolis, IN
on Jul 6, 2009 at 06:36 PM
It is incredible to see all of the comments from those people whose lives John touched. I look back on my years at WEAU (1996-99) as some of the most rewarding in my career, if not exactly the most lucrative. Working for John was a big reason for the rewarding parts. I often say that I went to college at UW-Eau Claire, but I learned how to do news at WEAU. John hired me as a part-time sports photographer, who barely knew how to shoot, and helped me grow as I moved up the ranks-- becoming a reporter/anchor before graduating. As a newsroom manager now, I find that John has influenced how I approach things. I like to include people in decisions when possible, to "have fun", and I also have the habit of asking people if they've "got a sec" when I need to talk to them. John will be missed, not only at WEAU and in Western Wisconsin, but in television news. He meant a lot to so many people in this industry. Penny and Lukas, my sympathies are with you.
Posted by: Kathy
Location: Fall Creek
on Jul 6, 2009 at 05:58 PM
Wow, it's amazing to see how many lives John has touched, including my own as another rookie producer, then reporter, and short time assignment editor. I'll never forget our daily chats in his office about the upcoming days news or life events, helping him use email practically every day! or giving a lesson on journalism, whether quirky or serious. Thanks for all the memories... It has been fun!
Posted by: Sheila Brown-Dutton
Location: Bloomer
on Jul 6, 2009 at 05:07 PM
I am so grateful to have worked with John. I started out as a producer, then moved on to reporting and left as the Assignment Editor in 2006. I am a better person knowing John and working with him. He was a mentor and a friend and I will miss him dearly. I would like to thank him for all that he taught me including the life lessons I will never forget. Even after leaving the station I always kept in touch with John as he always made time. I have so many memories of him but one of my favorite sayings that he used to say to me as I was on the Assignment desk and his office was just a few feet away, he'd yell out..., "Hey Lorraine, you do nice work..not much, but what you do is nice." I took that as a compliment. Goodbye my dear friend, you will be missed.
Posted by: Adam Carter
Location: WCCO-AM Minneapolis
on Jul 6, 2009 at 04:52 PM
I was saddened to learn of John's death this morning. I came to know Mr. Hoffland when I worked at WAXX/WAYY Radio from 1999-2001. He was always so very friendly, and I remember the great relationship our stations shared with John and WEAU. I also had the pleasure to participate in various panel discussions with John, and I appreciated his "news sense" and his advice for a young reporter. Many of us who've worked in the Eau Claire market have great memories of our time there, and John is a big reason why. I consider myself lucky to have known him. My condolences to his family and his collegues at WEAU.
Posted by: Gil Buettner
Location: Wausau
on Jul 6, 2009 at 04:25 PM
When I was transferred to Rochester in 1981, John was appointed news director to take my place. I was briefing him on some of the concerns and things he would need to think about, when he made the comment, "This is going to be a lot of fun!" Well, I knew that wasn't exactly right, but I wanted him to always remember that... so I had that quotation burned into a wooden sign as a gift for him. Over the years we often talked about some of the "fun" things we had to deal with. We rarely disagreed on anything at all...
Posted by: Christine Mangi
Location: Washington, DC
on Jul 6, 2009 at 02:14 PM
John took a chance on me and gave me my first job out of college, as a rookie reporter and weekend producer. He knew just how much I loved those graveyard shifts and told me to treat it like grad school on the job. He always had a warm smile and an infectious laugh...and I always appreciated that he was very forgiving if one made a mistake, of which I made many! You will be missed John.
Posted by: John Wendel
Location: Charlotte NC
on Jul 6, 2009 at 02:12 PM
If you judge someone by the number of friends one makes or by the number of people he touched and helped in life, then John was a mountain of a man. He taught and mentored many young reports and meteorologist only to watch them move on to other stations. He will always be in my memories as the newsman's newsman, working hard to get the big story and get it right, yet he was laid back, easy going and always willing to help you out. He will be missed my all he has touched. To Penny and Lukas, my sympathies and prayers are with you.
Posted by: Jan
Location: Eau Claire
on Jul 6, 2009 at 02:01 PM
John was a generous man who always had time to visit the UW-Eau Claire journalism classes and share his advice and stories with our students. He was always sure to get a laugh. John and WEAU gave more of our students their first start than anyone else. His death leaves a gaping hole in the news businesses, but an even larger one in the lives of those who knew him. May memories of him comfort all those who mourn his death.
Posted by: Deanna
Location: Eau Claire, WI
on Jul 6, 2009 at 12:18 PM
I have known Hoffland for over ten years as he was my sisters boss at WEAU. Sheila has always spoke very highly of Hoffland even after leaving WEAU to further her career in the insurance business. The two continued to stay in touch and occasional met for a business meeting to review the local news. For most of you that know my sister she suffered a tragic event that nearly took her life several years ago. I can tell you the one person who I had contacted at WEAU that day was already at the hospital giving his two senses! During her three weeks at the hospital Hoffland would visit daily in the early hours (4-5am)and requested an update to see how "Brownie" was doing. At one point, the CCU staff referred to Hoffland as Sheila's father. I can only speculate, but I think Hoffland may have told the staff he was family. I knew that Sheila had a wonderul boss, but not only was Hoffland her boss he was family to her. Thank you for all the support you have given me through the years.
Posted by: Rick Foy
Location: Minneapolis
on Jul 6, 2009 at 12:01 PM
"Between you, me and the fencepost," John Hoffland was a classic: newsman, mentor, teacher, facilitator, storyteller, humorist...and dear and loyal friend to so many of us who had the great fortune of teaming up -- and learning from -- John. I'll never forget the opportunities given and the stories shared -- or should I say listened to! -- during my years in sports at TV-13, and the many years after. Thanks, John, for allowing me to live my dream. I join with so many others in extending deep condolences to the Hoffland family and all at WEAU. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Rick
Posted by: Jamie Boll
Location: Charlotte, NC
on Jul 6, 2009 at 11:52 AM
How many can claim John as a mentor? My name was added to the list in 1988 and hardly a week goes by that I don't think of some lesson he taught me. I'll always remember one of my first live reports. I guess I was a bit excited in my delivery. He told me in a gentle fatherly tone, "lets save that delivery for the second coming." A lesson in perspective that was much appreciated and always remembered. I would love to go back in time and see him put his feet up on the desk and hear an ol' "war" story. I'll also always remember him speaking proudly of Luke. A habit of his I only truly appreciated after becoming a father myself some years later. My wife Meredith (another WEAU alum) send our best to Penny, Lukas and the WEAU family.
Posted by: Mary M
Location: Eau Claire
on Jul 6, 2009 at 11:10 AM
While John wasn't my boss while working at WEAU, I saw a lot of him while I was in Master Control. He alway had a smile and a friendly word. I will alway remember him and Dave Carlson doing Karoke to "War" at the Christmas party. I will always remember him with a smile.
Posted by: John (JD) Dalton
Location: Dodgeville, Wisconsin
on Jul 6, 2009 at 10:59 AM
"Hey JD, you got a minute!" That's how it usually started and minutes later we'd still be drinking coffee and talking in his office. John was a wonderful human being and we all lost a dear friend. Like so many of you who have posted, he was instrumental in all our careers, a great friend and mentor. After my 5 year stint at TV-13, John and I stayed in contact as I started my own career in the video production arena. I guess I could call him my personal consultant - someone who always had the time to talk and offer me suggestions. John and I produced "On-Camera-Surviving in the News Media" - an educational video we put together in 1991 designed to help anyone acquire a better understanding of how to respond to a reporter's request for a news interview on camera, how to prepare for that interview, and how to get your point across to the public. I'll never forget how much fun we had with that project and the countless stories we shared. Thanks for everything! You will be missed! JD
Posted by: Tom Lindner
Location: KARE-TV
on Jul 6, 2009 at 08:39 AM
I just read of John's death. I'm shocked. It's like losing a brother for me. We go back nearly 30-years to our days as Weekend Producers/Assignment Editors at WCCO-TV. Thanks for the wonderful photo. Of course he is smiling. No one enjoyed a good joke more than John Hoffland. And no one shared humor with more gusto than he. My thoughts are with his families--both at home and at WEAU. Please share my sympathies with both. And even though hearts are broken by his loss, please remember the great joy he brought to our lives. He lived life, not just observed it. He helped others get better with little concern over his own ego. He laughed from the belly in an infectious way that you couldn't help but join in. The Packer cheering section in heaven is stronger today with its new arrival. God bless John Hoffland and all of us fortunate to know him. He was a gift. Tom Lindner July 5, 2009
Posted by: John Frank
Location: Eau Claire
on Jul 6, 2009 at 08:16 AM
It has been a distinct honor and privilege to work with John the past 12 years as a political analyst for WEAU. He was not only a fellow "political junkie," but a treasured neighbor and friend as well. That relationship started shortly after I returned from DC in 1997 with John pulling into my driveway one night while I was working in my yard and asking "hey, John, have you got a sec?". That was the first of hundreds of conversations that generally began with "have you got a sec" and proceeded to a joke involving some combination of a parrot, a pirate, and a bar and, then, an exchange of political stories and observations on the events of the day. I can truthfully tell you that, having encountered hundreds of journalists and other "political junkies" in my career, there was only one John Hoffland. John was the epitome of honesty, integrity, and excellence in journalism. I can't imagine the newsroom, say nothing of my own life, without him.
Posted by: Chris Earl
Location: Cedar Rapids IA
on Jul 6, 2009 at 07:16 AM
Oh Goodness, the stories from "Hoffland" (from those of us who worked for him) came every day. Yet amid the funny stories is also this: John was able to also be the peacemaker in his newsroom over disagreements. That is a true skill. He was the focal point and sounding board for, literally, hundreds of journalists who walked through the halls of TV-13. For a market the size of Eau Claire, WEAU has also had a fair amount of people who returned to TV-13 after originally departing (including myself). We returned because we loved Eau Claire and Western Wisconsin but also because we loved working for the one and only, John T. Hoffland. There will never be another like you and we are all much richer for having worked with you.
Posted by: Kurt Kotenberg
on Jul 5, 2009 at 09:45 PM
I remember entering his office to discuss an idea I had for weather. Twenty minutes later, after watching CNN with him for a while, I left with an even better weather idea, and to a story about Norway’s dress code for its schools and that it says its students must wear khakis or better to school. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Hoffland family. As evidenced by people’s comments, he has helped out and touched the lives of so many. The newsroom will not be the same without John there and he will be deeply, deeply missed.
Posted by: Alexa
Location: Minneapolis
on Jul 5, 2009 at 08:59 PM
John was a great guy who gave me a chance many college students would've dreamed of, producing a live newscast even before I graduated. He remembered my family from the Viroqua area and told me many great stories. I think the best story he told me was after I came back to WEAU to visit during my senior year of college and he asked me if I had ever been to the Burnsville Bowl in the Twin Cities area, he then went on to tell me how he watched the moon landing there, only John! Not all bosses are like John, it's something I learned real fast after leaving WEAU, he is one of a kind and his generosity and good humor will be missed by many.
Posted by: Bob Beine
Location: Eau Claire
on Jul 5, 2009 at 08:09 PM
Having started in the same year,1978, as John, I looked at him as an older brother,being that I'm five years younger. I know he let me get away with stuff just cause I was one of those who stuck around alot more than the usual 3-4 year average. I would often remind him how he was a part of my LaCrosse TV days. Watching him anchor the Saturday Night 10pm in LaCrosse,then working with him as our first producer in sub-control and as he anchored his first few years at WEAU brings back only the best memories. "Bobby ya got a minute? gotta talk" So there I am waiting...after 5 minutes of other interupts,phone calls etc. I would rise off the chair,wave bye bye..and say "John I got a newscast to direct,catch me later" Of course "later" was always while I was in the middle of directing the news! WEAU News had one true professional icon in John and working with him,especially on various news specials and elections was a big reason I stayed at EAU for 27 years. Will never forget. Bye for now..
Posted by: Amelia
Location: Cerling
on Jul 5, 2009 at 06:54 PM
John was probably the best boss I'll ever have, and he truly was almost like a father to many of us. When you did something wrong he wasn't afraid to tell you "you know what your live shot was awful, you need to do better," but when you did something right and he'd say, "good job kid" that praise felt more important than anything else anyone could have said. I'll just miss the random little moments the most--like how I'd go in to talk about my last story and we'd end up discussing the best place to get a burger in the twin cities. Or how he'd constantly joke with me that I went to 'some community college in Minnesota' when I went to the U of M. He always joked that they didn't teach anything to us kids from Minnesota :) Being able to come to work and laugh every day was an amazing feeling -- and to have the utmost respect for this man at the same time is something I feel not everyone is blessed with in a boss. John I will miss you so much.
Posted by: Harlan Pedretti
Location: LeClaire, Iowa 52753
on Jul 5, 2009 at 06:54 PM
I graduated from Viroqua High School in 1963 with John and remember him as being a very funny man. He had a real outgoing personality and was well liked by everyone. John was the MC at one of our reunions and did a great job as he always did. He and his wife visited us some years ago in Dubuque, Iowa and he was the same funny guy. I send my prayers to Penny and Lukas and the rest of his family. A friend, Harlan
Posted by: Mike Miller
Location: WISN TV Milwaukee
on Jul 5, 2009 at 03:58 PM
I was fortunate to work with John during my first couple of years in the business, in the mid-70's at WKBT-TV in LaCrosse.(Where he met Penny, by the way) John anchored the 10:00pm show. I was a lowly reporter. But in the newsroom -- and over many a frosty Heileman's product on 3rd Street -- John taught rookies like me about the ups and downs of journalism. He had been a 'radio guy' in Madison and had that smooth, golden voice. He used to sign off with the name John T. Hoffland.. so I always called him "J.T." Those were the days before he became a news director, but that was the absolute perfect profession for him. His patience and level-headedness made him a natural teacher. Rest well, J.T. No ratings books or cranky General Managers where you reside now. Save an Old Style for "Monte."
Posted by: Eric Hanson
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
on Jul 5, 2009 at 02:15 PM
In 1996, I was another of the 'fresh out of college' reporters John brought into the WEAU family and I'm thankful for every piece of wisdom he shared and every quick story he passed along. From the best Hot Beef sandwich in Osseo, to the best way to get to Vernon County, and the mental rolodex of every official's phone number in Eau Claire & Chippewa Counties, John was an amazing character. But his patience with young reporters, his teaching moments when things could have been better, and his praise for stories that turned out well were life-long lessons I still carry with me. Sure, John made us laugh by picking his teeth with rubber bands, talking on 3 phones at once or hanging out in his winter coat, sharing a story before heading home. But more importantly, John was a class act with deep commitment to his station, his community and especially his family. Our prayers are with Penny, Lukas and everyone in the WEAU family. We'll miss John. Wisconsin's better because of his influence!
Posted by: Scott Cohn
Location: New York
on Jul 5, 2009 at 09:53 AM
If you measure a man's life by the lives he touched, John was a man of infinite good, and our loss is immeasurable. But "between you, me and the fence post"--"Any port in a storm." Somewhere today, John is telling lots of "quick stories." And heaven is a much happier place as a result. Thank you, John, for the profound influence you had on my life and so many others. To the TV-13 staff, my sincerest condolences. We share a great mentor--he was so much more than a boss, even back in 1981. And to Penny and Lukas, my deepest sympathies, love and prayers. I hope to talk to you soon. --Scott Cohn
Posted by: Justin Steinbrinck
Location: Green Bay, WI
on Jul 5, 2009 at 05:32 AM
What a shock to hear this tragic news, just after visiting with John on Wednesday. He was always good for a laugh, and was still playing pranks on the weather staff (like old times) even during my quick visit this week. He'd love to talk to you during a show, (just barely off camera) during short commercial breaks, in his big winter coat...to most it would be un-nerving...but for TV-13 people, it became commonplace. What a guy. Thanks for giving me my start in the biz, Mr. Hoffland. You are truly one of a kind, and you will surely be missed by all.
Posted by: Ashley Baylor
Location: WEAU
on Jul 5, 2009 at 03:28 AM
I believe the people you care about are always taken away too soon. You're truly one in a million John Hoffland. Thank you for all your stories, for making me laugh, for being the best boss anyone could ask for--Know that I cherish every memory.
Posted by: Lindsay
on Jul 5, 2009 at 03:03 AM
I remember when we had the old school WEAU cellphones. They were big, bulky, and easy to use...no texting or cameras...but John called me into his office numerous times, "Hey Lindsay, you got a quick second?" He'd say. "How do you answer a call on one of these things?" "Hit talk" I'd say. "Oh, okay...well than how do I hang up?" I must have shown him at least 5 times. Then the next thing I knew, he had a blackberry and was sending me emails with it! Also, every morning I walk in the door he'd say "Hey, you got a poll question for today?" I will miss you so much John. You are truly the best boss I have ever had.
Posted by: Sean Towle
Location: Madison, WI
on Jul 5, 2009 at 02:47 AM
John was notorious for those quick stories. When I came for my interview back in 2004, we went in his office, sat down, he quickly asked me how I was doing, then shared a "quick story". That was the entire interview. Thankfully I got the job and was able to share the first 2 years of my journalism career with and being mentored John. He was a good friend to each of his co-workers. We'll miss you John. My thoughts and prayers go out to Lukas, Penny and the rest of your family.
Posted by: Kelly Schlicht
Location: Eau Claire
on Jul 5, 2009 at 02:34 AM
I count myself one of the last of the lucky hundreds of reporters to be hired by and learn from John. The man was a legend. I always enjoyed our little chats--not only the "quick stories" but the discussions about politics, the military, and the great old journalists. He told me once to "smile a bit more, kid, it's not Watergate!" but today on air I found it hard not to burst into tears. I'm so glad I called to bug John about a story one last time on Friday. His last words to me now seem like such resonant advice on how to do this job: "Have fun!"
Posted by: Sarah Stokes
Location: WEAU
on Jul 5, 2009 at 02:25 AM
All I can think about right now is how much I'm going to miss him and how lucky we all have been to be part of the family he built at WEAU. How many people can say their boss made it a point to make you laugh or smile every single day? I know tonight in heaven, the angels are hearing your quick stories, John... and likely hearing about the little places along highway such-and-such where you can stop and get a great sandwich. Thank you for everything, John. Thank you for every quick story, every challenge, every laugh, your support and advice. The newsroom won't be the same, as John was truly one of a kind. Our deepest sympathy to Penny and Lukas. Sarah
Posted by: DIck (Scott) Ginkowski
Location: Pleasant Prairie, WI
on Jul 5, 2009 at 01:32 AM
The word "mentor" can seldom be used as accurately as it is to describe John who turned WEAU into one of the finest small market news operations in the nation. I encouraged many young journalists to hit John up because the education they would get at WEAU from him would lead them to successful careers. John was a prince of a man, a hell of a journalist and an icon. Godspeed, John.
Posted by: Kevin Wondrash
Location: WEAU
on Jul 5, 2009 at 01:11 AM
The first time I met John was at a WBA college conference in the Spring of 2006. He was on a panel basically created to scare college kids out of the business. The two things I remember him saying were, "you won't make a lot of money", and "you're going to work holidays". I couldn't argue with him then and I certainly can't argue with him now. I feel lucky to have had him as my first boss, and honored that someone with his experience took a chance on hiring a shy kid from Two Rivers who didn't quite know if he could work in a real TV newsroom. Goodbye, John, and thank you for always keeping your door open for me, thanks for listening to me and respecting me, thanks for letting me grow and guiding me into growing to be a professional, and thanks for giving me a good word or two to help me move to the next step in my career. I've gotten into that habit of saying "gotta quick sec?" and I don't think I'll ever quite shake it off. I'll buy you a "Heineken" someday when we meet again.
Posted by: Rob Crain
Location: Madison
on Jul 4, 2009 at 11:53 PM
John was a mentor in the truest sense of the word. For me the mentoring did not occur as I made my way into the world of being a journalist, but rather as I became a News Director. Though, given his vast experience, he had forgotten more than I would ever know about TV news, John always took the time and interest to treat me as an equal (while passing along pearls of "Hoffland Wisdom" along the way). Of course, you always knew you were in trouble when John asked if you had time for a "quick story" that was "just between us girls." The classiest of acts, John Hoffland, you will be missed. But, rest assured, your teaching lives on. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the Hoffland family.
Posted by: Chris Baylor
Location: WEAU Eau Claire
on Jul 4, 2009 at 11:46 PM
I always made a little extra time to hear the stories John told because they were all new ones to me, and like many others here I always learned something. My last "ya gotta minute" of course had to do with Brett Farve, John had been on a kick lately of finding Farve jokes, like we will never forget you Brent, a few days ago he pulled Judy and I into his office to see Letermen's bit on Farve going to the Viks and then after that going to about 5 other teams only to return to the jets. It happens to also be a day he took the time to just sit and ask how everything was going with my new duties and gave me some constructive criticism, it turned into him poking fun of my first live shot from a year ago which I could never live down the "dance" I did. He was always quick to demonstrate it and let me know it was OK, "next time he was just going to put some weights on either side of me." I am so grateful that I was able to learn from you John, you will be missed by so many.
Posted by: Tom Koziol
Location: Thomas Video Studio
on Jul 4, 2009 at 11:14 PM
To the Hoffland Family & the TV-13 Family: My wife Terry & I were shocked and deeply saddend to learn of John's passing when we tuned in to tonight's news broadcast. While we have known John for many years, we are very greatful for his most recent help earlier this year in addressing a SCORE sponsored seminar that we attended this past spring where he gave a much appreciated motivational presentation to businesses both new & old, on surviving in this downward economic time. On a more upbeat memory, John came to us shortly after his initial announcement of his retirement just a couple of years ago, wanting information about our previous 17 years of wedding videography experience. John thought he might want to try his hand at videotaping, producing and documenting the stories of local weddings. Despite doing our best to convince him that the newsroom was much less stressful than a bride and her mother on a wedding day, he took on the challenge anyway. John, we will miss you! -Tom & Terry
Posted by: Bob Brainerd
Location: Delafield
on Jul 4, 2009 at 10:52 PM
John was a classic, and I'll never forget all the great things he did to kick start my sports career. He was also perfect in his timing, and kicked me in the rear when I needed it. I went to the GM one day to pitch my thoughts on broadcasting a basketball game...it got shot down. I came back into the newsroom and barked about it, and was joined by the news anchor in dispensing our displeasure. John called us both into the conference room and reamed us out! He told us that like it or not, the newsroom looked up to us, and while he didn't like the decision either, he expected us to set a better example. We all calmed down, and had a good laugh in the end...and I understood the concept of time and place, choosing your battles and setting an example. It was a classic meeting "just between us girls" as John used to put it. Thank you for that, John, and for everything else you did during my TV-13 stay.
Posted by: Jennifer McLeod Amundson
Location: White Bear Lake, MN
on Jul 4, 2009 at 09:09 PM
This is a horrendous shock. I need some time to collect my thoughts, but want to immediately share my condolences to his family and the extended network of friends and fans. He was a great news director and a dear man. Thanks, John. You changed my life.
Posted by: Sue
Location: Arcadia
on Jul 4, 2009 at 09:06 PM
A well-respected, hard working member of the community - - a boss, but more importantly a friend who cared - - a man who loved to share laughter and kindness with all he met. I did not know John personally, but he definitely sounds like and was a very unique and kind-hearted individual. Taken from us much too soon.
Posted by: Kevin
Location: Minneapolis
on Jul 4, 2009 at 08:49 PM
Think of the kids he tutored and mentored over the years. I'm one of them. And 25 years after he gave me a start, he continued to call with a "quick story". I will miss his wisdom, support and great voice messages from the one and only "Roy T. Hofflard."
Posted by: Johh
Location: Menonmonuie
on Jul 4, 2009 at 08:14 PM
John was a good friend a valued colleague for decades. He was one of my most treasured pals and confidents. I deeply mourn his passing. John K. Enger Executive Director of Univrsity Relations (retired)
Posted by: Joe Radske
Location: Omaha
on Jul 4, 2009 at 08:03 PM
John was a friend and a mentor. He taught me that a journalist can have compassion. They don't make journalists like John anymore. He was one of the all time greats. To this day I use his catch phrase, FYI Short Circuit. There are a lot of journalists tonight thankful they knew John. My prayers go out to the Hoffland family and his WEAU family. Rest in peace my friend.
Posted by: JoeB
Location: Eau Claire
on Jul 4, 2009 at 08:00 PM
This sudden passing is tragic to Penny, Lucas, family, and the innumerable friends in the community and at WEAU. I feel fortunate to have known John and am blessed to have learned a "thing or two" from him. Johns eloquence and commitment to his team and journalism will no doubt be the legacy at WEAU. The numerous stories, relationships and friendships will be his legacy for the rest of us. We were fortunate to have known him.
Posted by: Diane
Location: Chippewa Falls
on Jul 4, 2009 at 07:40 PM
There was and never will be a news personality quite like John. He brought the comapssion, integrity and honesty to your news program and will be sadly missed by all who's lives he touched, personally and professionally. May God Bless him and his family at this sad day.
Posted by: Chris Duffy
Location: St. Cloud, MN
on Jul 4, 2009 at 07:37 PM
I was one of hundreds of young, green aspiring journalists John Hoffland took a chance on and hired based entirely on potential. He was a wonderful, charming, funny class-act of a man to whom I owe a lot. When I told John that I was leaving TV-13 for a job in a bigger market, John grinned from ear to ear and offered a genuine congratulations. That's what I remember most about John. He wished the best for his employees, even if it meant losing them to bigger markets. Heaven just gained one hell of a storyteller, and an outstanding man.
Posted by: Jack Kapfer
Location: UW Eau Claire
on Jul 4, 2009 at 07:06 PM
One of John's prefaces before a "quick story" was "Just between you, me and the fence post...." In the early eighties, John took a "temporary" job at WITI in Milwaukee. At his going away party, he was presented with a potted "fence post" so his stories could be as accurate as possible. Thank you, John. I will miss you very much.
Posted by: Jason Prairie
Location: Eau Claire
on Jul 4, 2009 at 06:43 PM
John always greeted me with a smile and a warm hello. I'll miss the times he would stop into the studio with his jacket on before he left for the day. He'd be talking to Judy before the 5 oclock news and the production crew would laugh and wonder if he would stop chatting Judy's ear off by the time the show started or if he was going to walk into the shot. "Stand by, Judy. Tell John we do a live news program at 5 oclock..." I'm lucky to have known you, John. Rest in peace.
Posted by: shelly
on Jul 4, 2009 at 06:42 PM
I am sorry for your loss. He was a fine man.
Posted by: Joe
Location: Eau Claire
on Jul 4, 2009 at 06:28 PM
John was choked up, had tears in his eyes, and was searching for the right words. Forty years of his personal history seemed to resurface instantaneously as he paused in the middle of his speech, while addressing families of a local National Guard unit whose members recently deployed. John coordinated the set up of video recordings of family members’ greetings to their deployed Soldiers. He began his address to the family members with mention that he had served during Vietnam. While referring back to the previous speaker’s mention of the VFW’s “Unmet Needs Program,” this news director, known for his pursuit of ‘the story,’ stopped silent in the middle of his. After pausing for a moment, obviously choked up, he looked back up and mustered these words: “We didn’t have this.” A reference to the hallow homecoming Vietnam Vets experienced upon returning stateside from their overseas tours of duty. This was the first time I met John – merely two months ago. And I'll never forget him.
Posted by: Jim Walker
Location: Saint Paul, MN
on Jul 4, 2009 at 06:02 PM
The greatest use of a life is to spend it on something that will outlast it. John Hoffland's legacy will be the dedication he instilled in people around him and the love we all felt for him. He was a pleasure to work for and will be sadly missed.
Posted by: Paige
Location: Green Bay
on Jul 4, 2009 at 05:48 PM
I'll miss Mr. Hoffland spitting out bits of his sandwich while he told one of his "quick stories." I'll miss Mr. Hoffland's infectious laugh. I'll Miss Mr. Hoffland's approval after watching a story I had worked on for hours. I'll miss Mr. Hoffland, a man who put WEAU News on the map.
Posted by: Mark Povolny
on Jul 4, 2009 at 05:42 PM
I'll miss hearing you tell the same stories over and over. Like how you dropped a news camera into an Iowa river in your early reporting days and had the cops fish it out with a net, video still working. Or hearing you tell, for the 938th time, how you shot a spider the size of a dinner plate (or Buick) (or tin can- it changed every telling) during your Army training. I rolled my eyes every time you started these quick stories but listened for the next 20 minutes until story time was over. We'll miss you dearly.
Posted by: Kelsi Boldon
Location: WEAU
on Jul 4, 2009 at 05:40 PM
After experiencing only a few "quick stories" I was pleased to learn that our own John Hoffland was an Army Veteran whose life after the military led him to his career in journalism. He fought hard for this blessed country and the 4th of July could not be a more appropriate day to celebrate his life and career. He is an irreplaceable piece of the WEAU family - RIP John.
Posted by: Raji Alowairdi
Location: WEAU
on Jul 4, 2009 at 05:39 PM
I wish he had time for just one more 'quick story'. I loved hearing John's stories, even when it was minutes to the show. I hope to carry on your unique sense of humor and positive attitude every day that I have left at WEAU. Thanks for the memories. We all love and miss you.
Posted by: Duane Wolter III
Location: WEAU
on Jul 4, 2009 at 05:36 PM
Before I was hired in the newsroom, John needed a "quick minute" to talk to me about something. I was supposed to meet my parents for lunch, and told them I would be over shortly. 50 minutes later, my parents brought styrofoam container of food over and dropped it at the front desk. He never did tell me if I was hired or not :-) R.I.P. John Hoffland, we will all miss you
Posted by: Mary Rinzel
Location: WEAU
on Jul 4, 2009 at 05:33 PM
Got time for a quick story?? I once complained to John I couldn't take a lunch break because I didn't get paid enough to eat..... He came back from his lunch, slammed a cup of soup on my desk and said "THERE!! Now take a break!" We love you Hoffland!!! |
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John was the consumate newsperson and was always deeply respected by his peers and competitors..I know, because I was one in both La Crosse and Eau Claire in the beginning of my TV career. WEAU and the city of Eau Claire were lucky to keep this fellow so long!
Few people in my career have left as memorable and long-lasting an impression as John. I think you could have placed him in any leadership capacity, and the accolades would read the same. In the mid 90's, after getting to spend some time in a local judges chambers over his dislike of my coverage of a trial, I returned to the station and was greeted by John, who wore a Cheshire cat-sized grin on his face. He asked simply, "What did you learn today?" His inate ability to turn any negative into a positive was his signature. I carry those lessons and examples from John with me every day. Thanks John - like so many of your pupils, I will forever remember the teacher.
I was shocked and saddened to just learn this week about John"s untimely passing. We worked together many years ago at WCCO and became reconnected this past May when I called to recommend a candidate for a reporter position. He very kindly invited me to visit his newsroom this summer with my daughter who is a college senior studying journalism. I am very saddened she won't have the opportunity to meet him and benefit from the wisdom he has provided so many tv journalists and students. He has touched so many lives, inspired so many journalists and will be deeply missed. Caroline Lowe
There will never been another John T....those award winning commentaries, unprecedented ratings victories spanning decades, and the clenching of the teeth when things got tough. He, Riggsy, and Cindy Loo Schott are making a great anchor team for the ages. God Bless em all.
I was fresh out of college (UW-Madison) and John had the good sense of not hiring me. However, from that day forward he became a tremendous supporter, mentor and, ultimately, a friend. He was a man I greatly admired and his energy, outlook and positive attitude are characteristics I can only hope to mirror. My thoughts will always be with you John and my thanks and prayers go out to your family.
I, like many of you, am still in shock over the loss of John Hoffland. One of my greatest memories of John was also the last day I would talk to him. I was leaving the station after working there for several years as a reporter. In fact, I was leaving the journalism business, which John kept telling me was a mistake. I brough John a bottle of his favorite booze as a goodbye gift for him. He told me to close the door, pulled out a couple of old Channel 13 coffee mugs, and we shared a drink. He told me he was proud of the work I had done, and that he thought I should stick with it. That has always stuck with me, because I knew that I had earned his respect. And that meant the world to me. I'll be raising a glass to "Hoffland" and thanking him for all he did for me, personally and professionally. He was a great mentor, and he will be missed!
John knew me since I was about 7 years old. I remember my Dad taking me to the station and him always being so nice and talkative with me. Working with him years later, he was just a great guy, down to earth, sincere and funny. Always wanted to share a story. You'll be missed greatly.
John was a man. He was a very hard worker and it's sad to see him go. He will greatly missed.
So many wonderful things have already been said about John. As a young kid fresh out of Tech school, John was the only News Director to take the time to meet with me back in the late 80's, and find a place for me in the Channel 13 family as a photographer. I too will always remember his wit, stories, and earnestness. He will be greatly missed.
"Just between us girls", John was always supportive, helpful and a guiding force in every journalist's life. He grew up in Viroqua (like I did) and hired me to be a photographer when I was in college at UWEC. Then, through three years of shooting, then producing and a million other things you get to do in a market like Eau Claire, John was always there. He always had "a minute" to tell a story that always had a lesson or backstory. That's why WEAU was a great place to work. It was a great job for anybody-- rookie to seasoned pro. And John treated everybody the same way-- with respect. I can't even put into words all the valuable lessons I learned working at WEAU. I always watch TV 13 when I return to my parent's house in Viroqua. John helped me grow and then helped me spread my wings and get a job in Milwaukee (where I am still working 14 years later!) To say John will be missed, is a giant understatement!
I worked in production at WEAU from 1981 until 1989. I remember in my early days running camera for the 1 minute live news updates at 8PM. These were live from the news room. Sometimes John would fill in. Here I was, the new guy, part time, running camera. And here was the head of the news department talking to me as if I was an equal! I remember him telling me a story right up to the second he went on the air. Then, very professionally, he would deliver the update. When the update was done, he finished the story without missing a beat. God bless you John. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
Having composed myself, I will try to write a little note about John. In the corner of my desk drawer at home, I have a 16 year-old scrap of paper that reads “Hofland 835-1313”. It is the note I took the day John called to offer me the weekend producer job at WEAU. I didn’t even know how to spell his name yet. I have kept that scrap of paper as I moved from WEAU to NBC News Channel to KARE and beyond. All the good and exciting things that have happened in my professional life I can trace back to that phone call and the lessons that followed. Thank you, John, for giving an opportunity to a young lady whose complete professional qualifications consisted of a smart mouth and a poli sci degree. I know you were proud of me because you told me so. I hope you know that I am proud of you, too.
As I read through the amazing words written by everyone about Hoffland, I can only feel lucky to have known him and to have worked for him. Maybe its the nature of a small market, but no matter how many reporter names I saw on file tapes that lined the edit bay wall nor how many have been added since I left, it never really hit me that Hoffland was that mentor, that first news director, that legend in this business... to everybody.
Unforgettable---that's the kind of guy John was, and will continue to be. I was working part time at Ch 13 in 1978 when John showed up as a producer. That was new, a first! Anchors previously put together their own newscasts. It soon was evident that producers raised the quality of newscasts and, incidentally, created an opportunity for more young persons to get a start in TV news. I'm ever-grateful to John for opening the newsroom door not only to many producer interns, but to videographers and a few reporters. Some will remember that John was media liaison to the courts in our state judicial district. He worked with the judges and had to be contacted by news organizations for clearance to take their equipment into the courtrooms. John was much in demand to participate in panel discussions of journalism standards and practices. He would always come down strong on the side of ethical behavior. John's many Western Wisconsin Press Club friends will miss him and extend condolences.
Like so many others, I was shocked and saddened to hear of John's passing. He was not only a great teacher and mentor, but a wonderful friend. I spent my senior year of college nearly stalking John in the hopes of getting a job at WEAU - calling, writing letters and showing up at events hosted by the WI Broadcasters Association when he was scheduled to speak. I think he hired me just so I would stop bugging him! I consider myself extremely lucky to have had such a great boss; in fact, I continue to say that he's the best boss I've ever had. While I only worked one year at WEAU as a reporter/weather person, I stayed in contact with John over the years to get his advice and words of wisdom; he's the one I called for a second opinion. He will be dearly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.