Russell Craig Hoff, 79, gained his heavenly wings on June 15, 2026, at the Central Wyoming Hospice and Transitions, from encephalitis and dementia. He was born on December 1, 1946, in Nebraska, spent his childhood in Worland and moved to Washington, then to Hot Springs, South Dakota. He met Mary when they were high school seniors, and he was the “cute new guy”. He joined the United States Coast Guard after graduation and served in Search and Rescue until his discharge in 1970. He married Mary VanDewater on September 18, 1966, and she joined him in New Jersey. He and Mary moved to Washington for two years before moving to Wyoming for him to continue college. His part-time job turned into a manager for Montgomery Wards which took the family to Worland in 1977. His family moved to Casper in 1991 when Mary took a transfer.

He is survived by Mary, son Russell Ryan, son Kevin Derl, son Steven Michael, and his grandchildren Russell Zayne, Danica Remington, and Riana Marie. He is also survived by his sister Irbi Nelson of Shell, Gene (Patti) of Florida, and Crent (Pattie) of Greybull, his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Stan and Cora Fugier of Rapid City, and sister-in-law Doris Darling of Casper.

As per his wishes, no services will be held. Because of his love for the Elks Lodge and children, donations can be made to the Casper Elks Lodge Children’s Fund at 108 East 7th Street, Casper 82601.

His family wishes to thank those medical personnel who lovingly took care of him as well as his many family and friends.