Duane Ray Hofer, Sr.

Duane Ray Hofer, Sr. March 26, 1941~June 1, 2025

Duane’s family originated from Berne Canton, Switzerland, along the border of Germany. His family decided to come to America by a sailing vessel in 1852. After 40 days at sea, they arrived in New York City. The Hofers only spoke Swiss German and struggled with the transition to America, but eventually made it to Ohio and then out West. 

Duane was a third-generation farmer of Hofer Farms, established in 1927, in Junction City, Oregon. He took over the farm from his father, Harry Ray Hofer, and the family continues to run it to this day. The farm raises grass seed, grain, Meadow Foam, hay, and livestock. Duane also founded H&E Feeds in 1970, which is still owned and operated by the family and remains successful to this day. 

Duane was on the Water Board and Ryegrass Commission. He is also known to have invented the No-Till Drill, which farmers still use to this day. His love for harvest was strong, never wanting it to end. His work ethic and positive nature were contagious to everyone around him. It’s as if he invented the saying, “Just rub dirt on it, you will be ok.” Duane hired countless local high schoolers and college-age young adults to work on the farm. Always driving them to be successful, yet allowing some fun along the way. He was loved by everyone who came into contact with him and left an unmatched legacy that can never be forgotten.

Duane was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Ray Hofer and Lorene Graham Hofer, and his sister, Geraldine Lorene Hofer. And his lifetime partner and mother to his children, Gail Margaret Hofer. He leaves behind his four children, Debbie Zeek (Keith Zeek), Duane Ray Hofer, Jr (Diane Hofer), Tracy Gannaway (Jeff Gannaway), and Susan Germyn (Jason Germyn). His grandchildren are Karen Zeek, Kayla Zeek, Garrett Zeek, Daulton Hofer (Halia Hofer),  Daylor Hofer, Danielle Martinson, Nicholas Gannaway, and William Martinson (Harlie Martinson). Skylar Germyn and JJ Germyn.  His great-grandchildren are Kimber Bowser, Bowdy Zeek, and David Martinson.