Kay Ellen Hoffmeister

Kay Ellen Hoffmeister, age 80, passed away peacefully Wednesday, May 22, 2024, in her home in Bristol, Indiana.  Kay was born October 3, 1943, to Jess and Betty Bowers in Goshen, Indiana.

Kay had two great passions in life: strays and music.  She never met a stray she couldn’t take home and did so countless times over the years.  Whether furry or four-legged or talking and two legged, she loved each one equally and each time said “This is the last time I will bring one home.”  It wasn’t.

Her love of music began with piano lessons in childhood, later teaching piano and accompanying high school musicians for Indiana State Music Association competitions.  Kay was a highly sought after organist as well as a musical and choir director.  Over the years, she served as organist and director of music for several churches in the area.  Kay loved musical theater and was a part of dozens of musicals with Elkhart Civic Theater.  Often wearing many hats as musical director, vocal coach and pianist; each time swearing when a show closed, “This will be my last.”  It wasn’t.

Kay was spiritual, independent, sarcastic and was never afraid to speak her mind.  She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Kay is survived by her husband of 25 years, Paul; her children, Michael Case, Michelle (Mitchell) Waggoner, and Amy (Jia) Myers; her sister, Kate Healey; stepchildren, Jason Hoffmeister, Josh Hoffmeister and Jennifer Gilley; 11 grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren.

Visitation will be Monday, June 3, from 11 a.m. until 12: 45 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home where funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m.  Pastor Karen Strietelmeier will officiate.

Burial will follow in Violett Cemetery, Goshen.

Memorial donations may be given to Zion Lutheran Church or Elkhart Civic Theater.