John Burton Hoffmann Jr, also known as “Animal,” age 61 of Naples, Florida (formally Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) passed away during the early hours of Thursday, June 19th, 2025. John was born  on January 25th, 1964 in Pittsburgh, PA to Thelma Ann Hoffmann and John Burton Hoffmann Sr. John is survived by his long-time partner, Kimberley Padgett; daughters: Victoria Whitlinger, Harlee  Hoffmann, Cynthia Padgett, and Taylor Padgett; his grandchildren: Abby Whitlinger, Corey Jr Whitlinger, Sophia Whitlinger, Ezra Padgett; and many friends and loved ones.

John was born and raised in Pittsburgh (yes, he was a fan of all things black and gold!). Growing up, John attended St. Bonaventure Catholic School and Shaler Area High School. At Shaler, John was an avid member of the French Club, and a phenomenal skier on the ski team. John found his love for motorcycles at fifteen years old which connected him to many communities throughout the years. Following high school, John found a passion in the HVAC industry. Throughout John’s life, he lived many adventures. In his younger years, he was the lead singer of a band, and was even a dance teacher for a short time in the 80s. No matter what adventure John found himself on, he never failed to deeply connect with those around him, creating genuine friendships with incredible people, and stories to share for a lifetime.

John first moved to Naples, Florida around 1988 where he started his family, and an HVAC business. In 1998, John moved his family back to Pittsburgh to take care of his parents. In 2006, John moved back to Naples, Florida, and continued to work as an esteemed HVAC technician who touched the lives of many-whether they were clients, or co-workers. Throughout John’s career he  mentored the growing generations of HVAC technicians. In Florida, John was a member of the Abate Motorcycle Club and the Iron Rhinos.

Almost ten years ago, John very happily became a grandpa to his first grandchild, Abby Whitlinger, and since has become a grandpa to four grandchildren. John’s family brought a plethora of joy into his life. He loved his children, and his grandchildren very much. John worked hard to provide for his family over the years, and would do anything to protect them.

John will be remembered and missed as a partner, as a father, as a grandpa, as a friend, as a peer, and as your friendly local HVAC technician. John is gone far too soon, but his memory and love will live on through his family and friends. A celebration of John’s life will be held on Saturday, June 28th, 2025 at Vineyards Park in Naples, Florida beginning at 9:30.