John Hoffman, 88, died peacefully at his home in Napa on July 21, 2009, with his wife of 62 years, Madeline, and daughter by his side.

Born in Portland, Ore., to Barbara and Fred Hoffman, he graduated from Columbia Prep School and attended UC Davis’ viticulture school until joining the Army Air Force in 1943. Upon his honorable discharge in 1945 he started his long career in the wine industry.

He became the winemaker and vice president of Christian Brothers Winery for Northern California operations, including responsibility for more than 30 varietals, altar wines, sparkling wines and vineyards. He always felt that the job of his generation of winemakers was to determine which varietals would grow best in which micro-climates in the valley. With more than 2,000 acres of vineyards, he was uniquely positioned to lead the way. During his 34-plus years in the wine industry he designed a new filtration system, talked winemaking with Dan Rather on “60 Minutes” and helped design the state-of-the-art fermentation complex in south St. Helena in 1972.

Upon retirement he brought his love of winemaking home to his garage, where with his sons and grandsons he continued to make wine for another eight years. He also became a wine consultant to the Chilean government as they were just starting the growth of their wine industry. He is an emeritus member of the American Society of Enology and Viticulture.

He and Madeline enjoyed dancing and world travel in their retirement. John was always involved in the lives of his grandsons, from teaching them how to hit a baseball to helping them build a go-cart that was designed by the oldest at the age of 7.

He was a grand tinkerer and the neighborhood rose expert, with more than 80 roses in his own garden.

He is survived by his wife, Madeline; daughter Elaine Hoffman (Lisa Berg), sons Bill Hoffman (Kathy), Paul Hoffman (Lori Barolo) and four grandsons.

The memorial will be held at Tulocay Cemetery on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the local charity of your choice.