Irene Karin von Hoffmann

ORONO - Irene Karin von Hoffmann, 83, died unexpectedly on August 19, 2026 at home. She was born May 11, 1943 in Gnesen, Germany, the daughter of Helen von Kiparski and Boris von Hoffmann.

Irene immigrated to the United States when she was 12 years old. She vividly remembered sailing into New York Harbor and cheering at the sight of the Statue of Liberty at dawn.

Irene began her life in America in Cleveland, Ohio. Like many immigrants, Irene faced the challenges of learning a new language, culture, and making ends meet. Irene thrived at West High School and matriculated at Miami University of Ohio, where she earned her Bachelor's degree. Irene went on to earn two Masters' degrees.

Irene worked in Portsmouth, NH as a counselor and then moved to Orono, to be the Assistant Director of UMaine's Residential Life Program. Irene joined other women organizing for equity- part of a life spent organizing and advocating for causes she believed in. Irene transitioned to working at Community Health and Counseling Services, where she built and managed a team to help children and families through challenging times.

In Orono, Irene fell in love with her husband, John McCormack and soon after they had a son, Johann von Hoffmann. John and Irene celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary last fall. They loved traveling to Europe and throughout the United States and Canada to enjoy food, culture, and to see friends and family. Irene especially enjoyed her summers up at camp and the beautiful sunsets across the lake, including special visits with her two grandchildren, Miriam and Maia.

In retirement, Irene continued her servant leadership as a literacy tutor, poll worker, and the President of the Church of Universal Fellowship Board of Trustees, where she helped the Church navigate through Covid and renovate its historic steeple. Irene's impact in retirement was much like it was in her professional life: she worked with people and organizations to accomplish things that matter to humans.

Irene is survived by her husband, John; her son, Johann; her daughter-in-law, Leah Shalev; her granddaughters, Miriam and Maia Shalev; her brother, Boris von Hoffmann, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Along with her parents, Irene was predeceased by her brothers, Rudi and Axel.

Friends and family are welcome to attend funeral services 11:00 AM, Friday, August 28, 2026 at Church of Universal Fellowship, 82 Main Street in Orono, with a reception in the Church gathering space following. In lieu of flowers, folks who wish to remember Irene in a special way may contribute in her memory to the Church of Universal Fellowship. Condolences to the family may be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com.