Mary Lou Hoffman

Mary Lou Hoffman, born on August 5, 1938, in Bradner, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025, in Toledo, Ohio. She led a life rich in love, laughter, and service to others.

Mary Lou embarked on her professional journey as a beautician before transitioning to a significant role as a Toll Collector and Supervisor for the Ohio Turnpike Commission. Over the years, she worked at multiple interchanges, leaving a lasting impression on those she encountered. Following her retirement from the Turnpike, Mary Lou took pride in dedicating her time to her family, cherishing her role as a mother and grandma to her children and grandchildren.

Education was an important part of her foundation, as she graduated from Montgomery Local High School, class of 1956. Mary Lou carried the values and friendships from those formative years throughout her life. Her senior year book quote was "I hate men, they irritate me, but I love to be irritated."

Known for her great sense of humor, she was a giving and easy-going person who never met anyone that she did not consider a friend. Mary Lou had a special love for conversation, often taking the time to wave and say hello to everyone she crossed paths with, embodying the spirit of community in all she did.

Mary Lou had a wonderful knack for baking, becoming renowned for her delicious Christmas cookies, pecan pies, and carrot cakes. The holiday season was particularly special to her, with Christmas standing out as her favorite time of year. It was during these times that the warmth of her kitchen brought loved ones together, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

In her leisure, Mary Lou enjoyed traveling and had a profound love for animals. She often delighted in watching birds and squirrels and had a special bond with her rescue dog, Vodka. Her playful nature also extended to her fondness for playing the lottery, especially scratch-offs, highlighting her light-hearted approach to life.  Mary Lou enjoyed watching sports, especially the Detroit Tigers, Ohio State Football, and the Cleveland Guardians.  She also loved a good margarita with her family and friends.  Mary Lou took great pleasure with flying in a small engine airplane with her her grandson Justin.   

Mary Lou leaves behind an enduring legacy through her living family: her daughters, Kay Kochczynski and her husband Ken, Kathy Campbell, and Brenda Watkins and her husband Bill; her son, Bill Schroeder and his wife Lori; as well as her grandchildren, Mike Kochczynski and his wife Andrea, Will Watkins and his fiancée Savannah, Austin Watkins and his fiancée Rana, and Jordan Schroeder. She is also survived by her great-grandson, Bernie Kochczynski, her brother, Don Loucks, and ex-husband Henry Schroeder.

Mary Lou is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ernie Hoffman, who passed away in 2020 after 38 wonderful years of marriage. Also preceding her are her grandson, Justin Watkins; her brother, Bob Loucks; her son-in-law, Scott Campbell; and her parents, Roy Loucks and Leone Loucks.

As family and friends reflect on her life, they will remember her generosity, warmth, and ability to bring joy to those around her. Mary Lou Hoffman’s legacy will forever remain in the hearts of her loved ones, a testament to a life well-lived.