SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW: Don and Elsie Hoff

Published online on Monday, Sep. 22, 2008

Where they live: Near Willow and Olive avenues

Occupation, age: He is a retired Fresno County deputy sheriff, 85. She is a retired office clerk, 86.

Family: They have been married for 61 years. They have one son, two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Why should we know them? The Hoffs have been involved with the Central California SPCA's pet therapy program for more than five years. Both use walkers to get around but still take their border collie, Freckles, each Wednesday to area retirement homes and rehabilitation facilities to visit residents. "It's so important for these people. They really look forward to it," Don Hoff says.

The Hoffs are on the advisory board of Hope For Future Victory Inc., a Fresno nonprofit that helps support Future Victory School in Africa. The nonprofit sponsors children and provides them with clothing, school supplies and other items. The organization also bought a generator for the school and has set up teacher and student scholarship funds.

The couple also bakes cookies for people they know, including nurses at their doctor's office. "It helps spread a little bit of love and friendliness around," Don Hoff says.

What are some organizations they belong to? Sunday-night Easton Country Gospel congregation at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Don Hoff belongs to the Mariposa Masonic Lodge.

What are their hobbies? He recently enrolled in a computer class at Fresno Adult School. She loves watching NFL games on television. They both enjoy baking. He was a square-dance caller for more than 30 years and she worked the floor.

What would they like to share with others? "Trust God," Don Hoff says. "Believe that and live that."