Antonina Hoffer

Antonina “Toni” Augusta Hoffer passed away peacefully on November 1, 2025, at Stella Maris Hospice in Baltimore, Maryland. Born in Zanesville, Ohio, on July 22, 1949, she was the daughter of Genevieve (Samborski) and Louis Hoffer.

A proud graduate of Zanesville High School and Ohio University, Toni went on to earn her Master of Business Administration from Johns Hopkins University. Her intellect, curiosity, and compassion defined both her professional life and her personal passions.

After her career, Toni found great fulfillment as a docent at the Walters Art Gallery, where she delighted in sharing her love of art and history—especially her lifelong fascination with ancient Egypt. She was also deeply committed to environmental and animal welfare causes, reflecting her enduring care for the world around her.

Toni’s greatest joy was her son, Christopher Rabbu, whom she loved deeply and supported wholeheartedly. She approached motherhood with the same warmth, patience, and humor that she brought to all areas of her life.

She will be remembered for her boisterous laugh, her love of music and the piano, her fondness for Snoopy, and her ability to find joy in simple moments—whether nurturing her plants, traveling abroad, or sharing family stories.

Toni is survived by her son Christopher; her siblings David Hoffer (Cheryl), Diana Hoffer Eesley, and Ellen Hoffer Wittekind (Daniel); and her niece and nephew, Emma Arensman (David) and Evan Wittekind. She was preceded in death by her brother Walter Hoffer.

She will be laid to rest at Mount Olive Cemetery in Zanesville, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Environmental Defense Fund at edf.org.

Her compassion, wit, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by those who loved her.

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