Born January 1, 1949, Eugene Reginald Hoff, vigorously fought his battle with cancer through August 10th in Scottsdale, Arizona surrounded by his wife, Lana and four daughters, Jamie, Lora, Kori and Kaycee. Reg, as he was known to everyone, was married to Lana for 49 years.
Reg was born in Miles City, MT and raised in Baker with his brothers Tom, Howard, Fred, Paul and sisters, Peg and Kay. Following graduation from Baker High, Reg and Lana moved to Billings where Jamie was born in 1970. He graduated from Montana State University with a degree in Business Agriculture in 1972 before moving to Philipsburg. Lora was born in 1973 while he was the Granite County Extension Agent. From there, they moved to Forsyth and another little girl was born, Kori in 1976, while Reg was the Rosebud County Extension Agent. Kaycee was born in 1978 and as Lana was giving birth, Reg handed her the paperwork to buy 80 cattle, thus the humble beginnings of the Hoff Ranch.
Reg and Lana took great pride in raising their four amazing daughters and are extremely proud of what each has achieved to date. The girls are beautiful, hardworking, tough, no-excuse-making, successful women. Jamie, a Cal-State Northridge graduate, continues to climb the corporate ladder in Scottsdale after spending 22 years in Southern California. Lora, an MSU graduate, holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, and has been married to Pat for 19 years. She has been a high school science in teacher in Arizona since 1995. Kori, a 1998 South Dakota School of Mines graduate, wife of Brian for 13 years, mother of Brady 11 and Trey 5, is the head Women’s Basketball Coach at Mesa Community College and a NJCAA National Championship Coach. Kaycee, a mortgage lender and 2001 graduate of MSU, is a mother of two to Parker, 9, and Kynzi 6, has been married to John since 2005 while currently residing in Bozeman.
Reg began working at Peabody Energy for Big Sky Coal Company in Colstrip in 1978 as the Reclamation Supervisor where he reclaimed surface coal mined lands during the day, and ranched at night and weekends, until retiring from Big Sky in 2015. Reg relied on his ranching experience and common sense to pioneer reclamation technology to restore surface coal mined lands to sustainable land uses that endure today. His efforts were recognized by both the state of Montana and Federal Office of Surface Mining on multiple occasions, including several national awards of excellence in reclamation. Yet while it may have been Reg’s name associated with the awards, he accepted each one with “we” as it was important to him to ensure everyone understood it was a team effort. Some great friendships were built at Peabody; each meaning a great deal to Reg.
For over 35 years, his professional reclamation efforts inspired others to excel in the field, resulting in restoration of post-mined land uses that equaled or exceeded pre-mining land. His career legacy is the Big Sky Mine reclamation that he successfully completed, resulting in the crown jewel of Peabody reclaimed lands. The numerous awards are the testimony; including just recently receiving honors for (another) National award for excellence in Surface Coal Mining Reclamation earlier this month.
While Reg was at the mine, Lana was running the ranch and farming while also raising the girls. Reg came home, had a couple of cold Bud Lights and butter and crackers before heading out to the ranch to do whatever needed to be done – they make a hell of a team. They continued to grow their herd and acquire more land on the North side. Their cattle continue to be highly respected and sought after within the industry, so much so earning them the Red Angus Grid Master award in 2014. Through hard work, determination and the family’s “never give up” attitude – regardless of what challenge they faced – together they expanded to their current successful operation, which Lana will make sure forges on full steam ahead.
Reg was also actively involved in the local farming community, serving on the Hammond Valley Ditch Board, Weed Board, and Conservation District Board all while using his Count Extension Agent experience and knowledge to share with anyone who would listen and interested in new ideas.
In between ranching, farming and raising a family, Reg always made time for fun too – including feeding his need for speed. From his days of racing cars as a youngster (and blaming it on his brothers) to his never-ending supply of $5 bills stashed in his visor on that boring straightaway stretch to/from Colstrip, to going to Las Vegas for the “Drive a NASCAR” experience for Father’s Day. Reg loved to laugh and make time for his family and friends. Even fulfilling a trip to Disneyland that he promised his grandkids and taking on the biggest coaster there – laughing and having more fun than they did. J
Holidays were always a big deal to Reg and without question the family gathers every December. Each Christmas day Lana makes her infamous prime rib for a late night dinner with the girls, their husbands, grandkids and any family friends that were around – the door was always open, just like his heart. The spirit of Christmas meant so much to Reg that he went to the extent of having the neighbor dress as Santa Claus and come to the house through the patio door and hand out “only 1” present to Brady, Parker, Kynzi and Trey. Reg would smile ear to ear while drinking his Christmas cheer, happy as could be as his girls, the kids and family were all together.
Reg is survived by his wife Lana, his daughters Jamie, Lora (Pat), Kori (Brian), Kaycee (John), brothers Tom (Colleen), Fred (Ann), Paul (Marcie), sisters Peg (Bob), Kay (Kay Lynn), sister-in-law Diana and numerous nieces, nephews, and grandkids. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Margaret, and brother, Howard.
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Service Schedule
Rosary Service
6:00 PM
Friday August 17, 2018
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
245 Westwind Lane
Forsyth, Montana 59327
Funeral Service
2:00 PM
Saturday August 18, 2018
Immaculate Conception Church
Forsyth, Montana 59327
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Connie Brown says
Lana and girls,
So sorry to hear of your families loss. I will keep you in my prayers, hold tight to the memories.
Dennis Kenney says
All the family. I was so shocked to hear of Reg’s passing.
My sympathy to all of you.
Shelly Mike Chandler says
Lana and Girls,
We are very sorry for your loss.
Prayers and hugs to you all.
Julie (LaBree) Stephens says
Shocked, saddened, and devastated for you Lana, girls, and families. How does this happen before we even know he is sick?! I pray that means not much suffering… You women had the hard part. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. If there ‘s anything you need done-just call.
Courtney Holmquist says
It hurts to see this?. Reg will be dearly missed! I saw first hand how much his family meant to him. We as a community are surrounding your family in tight hugs and love. Your family is near and dear to so many of us! We are all here for you near and far in prayers and thoughts and grieving beside you. The memories are I have of Reg are priceless and are of a man of such high moral character. The love he had for Lana and the girls was more than breathtaking and I can’t imagine the void. Reg is in a better place and I hope we all can come together to help to comfort your family ❤️ Huge tight hugs to you all???
Jack & Sandi Van Pelt says
Lana and girls, We are so sorry for your loss. Reg was a great man and will be missed by many. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Anna Griffith says
Lana and family so very sorry for your loss. I was very sadden to hear this. I will keep you in my prayers. Hope to see you at the funeral.
Kirsten (Coate) Bibeau says
My heart is heavy for each of you. Goodbye is so painful. What an amazing husband and dad you had. He touched so many lives and I am so thankful for the time I spent in your house around him. I can hear his laugh forever in my heart. You are strong women and we are all pulling for you. Sending you love and continual prayers. ❤️❤️
Kari says
So very sorry and heartbroken! He will be dearly missed! He was an amazing guy! Hugs and prayers to all of you! ❤️
Carroll and Lanell Kaup says
Lana and family- our sympathy for your loss. Reg was always such a happy smiling person and we will all miss that cheerfulness. May the wonderful memories you have help to comfort you. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Sheila & Monty Haselhuhn says
Lana, girls and the entire Hoff family, we were saddened to hear of Reg’s passing. Hold on to each other during this difficult time. Your are his legacy!
Jenny and Randy Gardner says
Lana and family, we are shocked and sadden by the news of Reg’s passing. What a wonderful friend, husband and father. He will be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of.
Bill and Kristi says
Lana, Jamie, Laura, Kori and Kaycee,
We were shocked and saddened to hear about Reg! Bill has wonderful memories of all the years they worked, traveled and of corse
Drinking Bud Light. Keep your memories close and hold on to all the love he gave you through
Good and bad times. He was so proud of all of you! You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Lori Ferguson Reierson says
Lana and the family so sorry you are in my thoughts and prayers. Reg was such a good man.
Randy & Stacy Brunsvold says
Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you as family. We remember meeting Reg while with Howard & Diana and thinking he was a special, fun-loving guy, just like Howard. Thinking of you all.
Dick and Alecia Smith says
Our hearts go out to you during this difficult time and the loss of Reg.
James Fontaine says
Dear Hoff family,
I am sorry to hear this. God Bless your family. You all are in my prayers.
James Fontaine
Debi Rapstad says
Lana, I was so sorry to read this, and want you to know that you and your family are in my prayers. Take care during this very difficult time.
Bill, Kristina, Troy & Bella Holland says
Kori, our prayers and deepest condolences go out to you and your family during this time of loss. This is also a time to celebrate the man that your dad was, and the people in which he touched their lives forever. The Lord is with you during this difficult time Coach, and never forget that his loving arms are waiting to comfort you and give you strength and peace that passes all understanding. Our prayers and love go out to you and your family my friend.
2 Corinthians 4:16
Melody says
Lana and kori and Kacyee I’m so sorry for your loss if you guys need anything just let me know and I’m here for you guys hugs and prayers to you guys and family ?
Jack Holmquist says
511 Marion Street
Dale and Rita Watson says
We are so sad to hear of Reg’s passing. He was such a good man and a good neighbor. We will be praying for you.
Jack & Kris Crocker says
Lana, so sorry to hear of Reg’s passing. He was a wonderful man.
Sharon Wetsch says
Lana and Girls,
We were shocked when we heard that Reg had passed away. I am so sorry. He was such a fun loving, caring person.
He always had that smile..! Hold your memories close, he will always be in your hearts. Sending prayers and hugs.
If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
Lynn Tompkins says
So sorry to hear of Reg’s passing. He was such a fun person to visit with at the fair and at the N.A.P.A. counter. He had a good outlook on life.
Kathee jones says
Hoff family you are part of our family and we love you all. So sorry for your loss. If you need anything let us know Derek and Kathee Jones
Bruce and Tena Ketchum says
Lana and family,
I just received a call from a mutual friend that informed us of Reg’s passing. We are so shocked. Lana, Reg was such a wonderful man. We both loved it when he called just out of the blue or when there was a question on something else. I truly will miss those calls but we definitely will miss his smile, laughter, personality, and friendship. He truly was a very special person and touched many people’s lives with our family’s being one of them. Your family is in our prayers.
Curtis Michael Belden says
Lana and Family,
So very sorry to get word that Reg had passed. He was such a hard worker and a professional in every sense of the word. He did everything possible to make sure that we lived up to our commitments for successful reclamation at the Big Sky Mine and because of that you can hardly see a trace of the old mine today. Our thoughts and prayers are will you all. God bless your family in this difficult time.
Curt and Lona Belden
Heather Taylor Hasbrook says
I have wonderful memories of Reg and hurts my heart to hear of his passing. Lana and girls, my deepest condolences. You are in prayers during this most difficult time.
Doug and Randi Wenz says
To the Hoff family, We are so sorry for your loss, we have many good memories of Reg. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Ron and Carol Moore says
Lana and family, we are so sad to learn of Reg’s passing. I will always remember his laughter. Praying that the memories comfort you.
Jan says
The Hoff family,
So sorry to hear about your loss. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers,
Jan(fahrenbruck) Stepp
Bobbi Vannattan and Family says
Lana, Kaycee, Kori, Jamie & Laura,
I was so sad to hear of Reg passing. Lana & Reg are really two of my favorite people to visit with in the office. The love for his family and pride for you girls was always a part of any conversation. He always had a story to tell and we enjoyed hearing them as much as he enjoyed sharing. He was an amazing supervisor at the conservation district and I am so honored to have worked with him over the years. There’s so many that have been blessed to know Reg and he will be surely missed. I hope that you find comfort in the love and memories you have of your husband, dad and grandpa. God bless you all during this time of sadness.
Prayers of love and comfort,
Bobbi, Ashlee, Thomas and Paden
Kacey Steinberger says
Kori and Family,
Sorry to does not begin to express how sad I am for all of you – however I know your family’s strength will bring you through. I have great memories of seeing him cheering you on – and I know he continues.
All my best in this time – Love
Kacey
Calene and Rick Smith says
Reg was definitely one of the Good Guys…all of us lucky enough to have known him share in your sorrow and loss.
Paula Fuchs says
So sorry to hear about Reg. Many good childhood memories at the Hoff houses . My condolences to the family . From your orher sister Paula Sieler Fuchs.
Bonnie & Steve Spriggs says
So very sorry to hear about Reg. Hugs to you and all of you family for what you have been through and in the difficult times ahead.
Becky Hanson Stanton says
Lana and girls. So sad to hear of Reg’s passing. What a great guy. I enjoyed working with him at the Big Sky Mine. He always ordered a cheeseburger and fries every single day. A good livestock man and reclamation man. My sympathies are with you all
Judd Stark says
I enjoyed Reg’s friendship over the past 18 years and am shocked and saddened to learn of his passing. He served so many roles and was held in such high regard that his absence will be felt for a long time to come. My sympathies are with all if his family and friends.
Dale & Brenda Schweigert says
Lana our sympathies to you and your family.
Randy & Janet Randi and Rachel Stanhope says
We are so very sorry to hear of the loss of Reg. He was such a unique individual and he will be sorely missed. We send our prayers to you and yours during this very difficult time.
Ron and Betsy Gehrke, Lakewood, CO says
Lana, Girls and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of Reg’s passing. Ron remembers going to brandings and helping Reg with farming and ranching, as much as a city boy could. 🙂 The brief time of our airplane ownership and unsuccessful attempt to obtain a pilot’s license, was an adventure Ron will never forget. Reg was a way better student pilot, at least he didn’t crash.
In the twenty plus years of working with Reg at Big Sky Mine, Reg was always hard-working, kind and easy going. Ron feels that working with Reg made him a better engineer through all that he taught him.
Reg was a great man and will always be remembered as such. Our hearts go out to all of you at this sad time.
Leonard Shearer (Tree) says
So sorry to hear, Reg is 100% and always will be, a great example for others to follow see in in Heaven buddy
John, Pat and Kate Cochran says
We will miss Reg’s infectious outlook on life and his love of family and working the land. We are thankful for the memories of spending time with Reg and Lana over the years, and our hearts and prayers go out to Lana, his family and friends. Reg was indeed a legend, and his stewardship of the Big Sky Mine resulted in the best reclamation of surface coal mining in the United States, bar none.
Janet and Dave Hauptman says
Lana, Jamie, Lora, Kori, Kaycee, Tom, Peggy, Fred, Paul, and Kay; We are deeply saddened to lose Reg, a very special man and cousin of mine. We loved his sincerity, fun loving personality, gumption, and love of family. Reg did many wonderful things for the Zook Family and we will sorely miss him. Our son, Ben, (Granite Co. Agent) uses the same desk, in his Philipsburg Courthouse office, that Reg did when Reg worked as the Ext. Agent there over 40 years ago. With deepest sympathy, Janet, Dave, Blake, Kaci, Ben, and Ross
Jim Lambert says
Jamie and family – so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. Not sure if you remember me, Jamie, but I worked with you at the Banana Bay in Bozeman back in ‘89-‘91. I remember you to be very close to your family and I want you to know I am thinking of you all during this very sad time. Living in Iowa now, but think of my old friends back in the day. Wishing you all comfort as mourn the passing of your beloved father, husband, and friend! – Jim Lambert
Vern and Trish Pfannenstiel says
Lana and family, We were so saddened to here of Reg’s passing. I worked with Reg from my first days at Peabody in 1981 and he was my friend and mentor from then on. He was my go to for making permits and plans as practical as possible. He was so skilled in getting great reclamation done and integrated that into the overall mining for cost effective and excellent results. His career legacy is the Big Sky Mine reclamation he successfully completed and which is the crown jewel of Peabody reclaimed lands. The numerous awards are the testimony. He hated planting those pine trees so that is probably why I was always back on the tree planter. Many great times in Montana at the ranch and the Jersey Lilly. Always with a Bud Lite, and more than once a bit too many. Reg was admired and appreciated by so many. In a lot of ways he seemed bigger than life and will be long remembered. A legend to be sure. I am honored to have been his friend and colleague. It was so obvious how much he loved loved his family. Our thoughts and prayers to you all.
Dorothy Susa Smith says
Lana and family, I am so sorry for your loss, I am remembering some of the great times we had in Gt Falls! You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May God strengthen you during this sad time.
Juline Newell Kosmicki says
Lana and family, I am so sorry to hear about Reg. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you peace and strength in these difficult times.
Tracy Hendricks says
So many great memories of the years we worked together. He was an exemplary worker with above average work ethic. Proud to have called him coworker and friend.
Vickie Gilje says
Lana and family, so sorry for your loss. Was shocked to hear of Reg’s passing.
If there is anything we can do to help, please don’t hesitate to call.
Duane Ankney says
Lana, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Duane and Carol. Ankney
Charles DeCock says
Life somehow doesn’t always seem fair but God has the plan! Reg certainly will be missed and my memories go clear back to when the Hoff’s came to the Forsyth area. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wonderful family!
Bryce West says
Bryce West (Peabody)
So very sorry for your loss. I really enjoyed working with Reg and have so much respect for him and how he handled everything. His work at Big Sky was exceptional and will serve as the measuring stick for stewardship for all of our mines going forward. On behalf of Peabody, please know how much Reg was appreciated and how everyone that interacted with him came away knowing they had met someone unique and authentic – “the real McCoy”. It was a pleasure knowing him.
Deb Roberts says
Lana and family. I’m so sorry to hear of Reg’s passing. My thoughts are with your family.
Susan Hause, and Tom & Amelia Anderson says
There aren’t many men that deserve the morality and are worthy of the respect that Reg Hoff should be afforded. He always treated me respectfully and made me feel welcome. Thank you Lana, Jaimie, Laura, Corey, and KayCee for letting us be a part of your family and sharing Reg with us!
Kat Whitaker says
Many condolences to the family. Hill County Conservation District
Deanna Topp says
Lana and family, Thoughts and prayers to you, girls, and all of the Hoff families. Memories of Reg in Baker and may the memories help in the days ahead. Dee Dee Hanratty Topp
ronald clingingsmith says
RON & JEAN CLINGINGSMITH SAYS
Lana & family this was really bad news our thoughts and prayers go out to you all. I havent been out that way in a few
years now but think of you and reg often . we enjoyed our visit,s alot and were more than thankful when reg would
let us go hunting , he was one hell of a man and we will miss him . god bless all ron, jean, bob, kevin
David Buckner says
Reg was such a good guy — and as referenced above as to awards, his contribution to the world’s understanding of mined land reclamation was huge. He had a great and very rare combination of technical knowledge (though he was shy about revealing it), common sense, ingenuity, and convivial nature that made it possible for him to make the Big Sky Mine reclamation happen like it did nowhere else. The re-enabled landscape that was Big Sky Mine is truly the epitome of land stewardship and a huge tribute to one man who we will all miss so much.
Charlie and Della Haverland says
Lana and girls…I am so saddened by hearing of Reg’s passing. Your family was always so kind to us and I always knew that I had eyes on our place from yours. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for all of your loss. He was a very special man with a LOT of friends and family.
Judeann Watson says
Lana and family…please accept my sincere condolences on your loss. Treasure your memories.
Bob & Eileen Hunnes says
Dear Lana and entire Hoff Family ……
Please accept our sympathies for recent and tragic loss of Reg. After knowing him for so many years, we just took it as a given that he would always be there during our lifetimes. Now suddenly there is this void. We will miss his smile and joking manner, but will certainly remember him for the great man that he was.
Mark Erickson says
Lana and family so sorry and surprised to here of Reg’s passing I have many fond memories of him he will be missed Godspeed
Peggy Redman and Earl Mortensen says
Lana and Family,
Earl joins me in sending heartfelt condolences to you in the loss of your beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather.
May you find comfort and strength in knowing others care. We are thinking of, and praying for you at this very difficult time. We pray that warm memories will help soften your sorrow, and may faith help you face each tomorrow. Reg will be greatly missed by his family, extended family, and many friends, in different areas where he lived and worked.
Butch & Joann Bergstrom says
Dear Lana and family, we were so sorry to hear of Reg’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Neil Harrington says
Dear Lana and Family,
My sincerest condolences to you all on Reg’s passing. Prior to my retirement, I worked in the state coal regulatory program and knew, worked, and interacted with Reg for many years, but hadn’t seen him for quite some time. I really appreciated his down-to-earth, up-beat, and “straight-shooting” style.
I trust that your faith and memories will help you through this very difficult time.
Doug and Cherie Heser says
Lana and Family,
Just returned from Europe and learned of Reg’s death. He was a good, well respected man — and we enjoyed catching up on the girls’ lives, as he was so proud of them. We are so sorry. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Sarah Stunkel says
Lana and family –
I was blessed to have met Reg early in my Peabody career. I remember the first time I met him; his huge smile and laugh. We worked for several years together. He was a mentor to me and I was fortunate enough to visit him quite a few times. He and Lana, welcomed me to their home and introduced me to the Jersey Lily. Reg was so proud of his family. He told me many stories about his girls and when I had my girls, gave me advice. He was so proud of them and he was so excited to become a grandpa. Reg and I lost touch over the last few years, but I thought about him quite frequently. He will always have a special place in my heart. May you find peace in knowing how many lives he touched while on this earth. God bless you all.
Yvonne (vonnie) Becker says
To the Family of Reg Hoff,
What a wonderful, well-written obituary. I was not aware of all of his accomplishments even though I had the privilege of working with Reg for several years at Peabody Coal Co. in Colstrip. I was shocked when I went in the post office and saw the notice of his passing. My sincere condolences to the family.
Carolyn Hadley says
Lana and family,
So saddened to learnof Reg’s passing, you will have a hole
In your hearts and lives for a long time. May God be with you all in the months to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the girls and family. Deepest sympathy to all of you, Carolyn and Jack Hadley
Gordon Brannon says
To the Family of Reg Hoff,
From: Gordon and Susie Brannon, Colstrip, Mt.
I am very sorry to hear about Reg, I worked with him for 26 years at the Big Sky Coal Company Mine from 1978 to 2004.
I enjoyed working with him and he was very fun to be around. He was very knowledgeable about Mining Reclamation and Ranching.
I will miss him and I am glad I knew him in my Life.
Gary and Claire Wendt says
Lana, girls, and family –
I first me Reg when he began working as Reclamation Supervisor at Big Sky Mine in 1978. Since 1976, I had been conducting soil and hydrology research at Big Sky Mine while working for the mainland reclamation research group at Montana State University. I quickly found out how dependable, trust-worthy, and hard working Reg was during the winter of 1978-1979 when he used the mines John Deere tractor to pull my Chevy Suburban out of a 5-foot snowbank near Snider’s alfalfa field in Coalbank Coulee. I am honored and proud to have worked with Reg and so many others on the Peabody Team as we initially permitted, mined, and later reclaimed Big Sky Mine Area A, the Sandstone Bluff Extensions, Snider Amendment, and Area B. He was instrumental to the mine’s longevity and reclamation success offering his down-to-earth ranching, farming, and extension work expertise. Reg was truly a reclamation pioneer and legend having touched so many lives.
David Wichman says
Lana & Family, I just learned of Reg’s passing. I enjoyed working with Reg on Don Baldridge’s crop variety trials in Rosebud & Treasure counties in 1976-78. We put in a couple of long days together and you provided me a place to toss my sleeping bag at the end of one of those long days. I am sorry to learn of Reg’s passing, but glad I had the opportunity to cross paths the good person Reg was. “Eating is a bad habit” was statement Reg made to me, one day, when we were discussing whether to break for lunch or skip it so as to finish the task at a decent time. May God bless you with daily reminders of the good person, Reg.
Laurie Bauer says
Lana and Girls,
I’m so sorry to recently hear this sad news. So very sorry for your loss. I used to babysit for you and had many rides to and from your house from Reg. With me being quiet and shy, he did a good job of trying to initiate a conversation during those rides. He was a beautiful soul with a beautiful family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.