Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : Raymond Hoffstetter, a television pioneer whose career spanned from St. Louis to Saudi Arabia, passed away at the age of 98 at his home in Crestwood, Missouri. Hoffstetter, known for capturing iconic moments such as Lou Brock breaking the stolen base record in 1974, was inducted into the KSDK Hall of Fame earlier this year. He started his career as a stagehand at KSDK in 1948, becoming one of the early television stations in the United States.
Throughout his career, Hoffstetter was known for his charm, wit, and captivating storytelling. He played a pivotal role in the evolution of television, from ingesting video feeds to working as a photojournalist in the field. His contributions to the industry were recognized by his peers and colleagues, with many crediting him for their own career decisions.
In his own words, Hoffstetter reflected on the impact television had on his life, stating, “There’s been nothing like it in history. I can’t explain how far along it’s come, and it’s not done yet.” His passion for television and dedication to his work left a lasting legacy in the industry.
Raymond Hoffstetter’s journey from a humble stagehand to a renowned television figure is a testament to his love for the craft and commitment to excellence. He will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking work in television but also for his kindness and generosity towards those he worked with. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of television professionals to come. This heartwarming story follows Raymond Hoffstetter, a young man who felt compelled to join the Navy during World War II to do his part in winning the war. Born in St. Louis in 1926, Raymond graduated high school at 17 and immediately enlisted in the Navy with his best friend. Despite his friend’s inability to enlist due to poor eyesight, Raymond excelled in his training and graduated as one of the top ten students in his class.
Raymond’s journey from small-town life to serving in the Navy showcases the determination and patriotism of young Americans during a time of war. His story is a testament to the sacrifices and contributions made by individuals like him to secure victory for their country.
The narrative captures the essence of a generation that was willing to put their lives on the line for a greater cause. Raymond’s experiences in boot camp and naval training shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by young recruits during wartime.
Through his perspective, readers gain insight into the sense of duty and camaraderie that defined the wartime experience for many young men and women. Raymond’s story serves as a reminder of the bravery and resilience displayed by those who served in the armed forces during World War II.
Overall, this story of Raymond Hoffstetter’s wartime service is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals like him in the pursuit of a greater good. His journey from a high school graduate to a top-performing naval recruit exemplifies the courage and dedication of the greatest generation. Louis’ first television station, was hiring. He applied and was hired as a scenic artist, launching a career that would span more than 40 years in broadcast television. Hoffstetter worked on a variety of programs, including children’s shows, news broadcasts, and sports events. He eventually became the station’s art director, overseeing the visual aspects of all programming.
After retiring from KSD-TV, Hoffstetter continued to stay busy, working as a freelance artist and volunteering his time and talents to various organizations in the St. Louis area. His love of flying never waned, and he remained an active member of the Navy’s Airship Association, attending reunions and events whenever possible.
This SEO-optimized summary tells the story of Hoffstetter, a Navy veteran who wanted to serve aboard a blimp but ended up on a destroyer patrolling the Aleutian Islands during World War II. After the war, he returned to civilian life and found success as a scenic artist at St. Louis’ first television station. Hoffstetter’s career in broadcast television spanned over 40 years, during which he worked on a variety of programs and eventually became the station’s art director. Even after retiring, he continued to stay busy as a freelance artist and volunteer in the St. Louis area. Hoffstetter’s love of flying remained strong, and he stayed connected to the Navy’s Airship Association, attending reunions and events whenever possible. This summary highlights Hoffstetter’s military service, career in television, and ongoing passion for flying, providing a comprehensive overview of his life and accomplishments. Louis’ only television station at the time was in need of another stagehand, and Hoffstetter seized the opportunity. After reporting for duty, he was asked to come back the next day and eventually landed a permanent job. Over the years, Hoffstetter worked as a stagehand until a conversation with a sound technician opened up a new opportunity for him as a sound man for the news department.
Hoffstetter’s passion for television and dedication to his work allowed him to transition into a new role within the station as it expanded. His willingness to take on new challenges and his ability to adapt to different roles within the television industry ultimately led to his success.
As Louis’ television station grew and evolved, Hoffstetter’s expertise and experience allowed him to make valuable contributions to the team. His journey from stagehand to sound man is a testament to his hard work and determination in pursuing his passion for television production.
With the station’s expansion and the increasing demand for quality programming, Hoffstetter’s skills as a sound man became indispensable. His ability to adapt to new roles and his commitment to excellence set him apart in the television industry.
Overall, Hoffstetter’s story highlights the importance of seizing opportunities, adapting to change, and pursuing one’s passion in the ever-evolving field of television production. His journey from stagehand to sound man is a true reflection of his dedication and perseverance in the industry.
St. Louis television pioneer Ray Hoffstetter dies at 98
I’m watching this feed, and I’m thinking, ‘This is what I want to do. I want to get out of this building.’ And I thought, ‘Ray has been doing this his entire career. He’s been behind the camera and getting all of this great stuff.’ So, I went to Ray and I said, ‘Ray, how do I get into the field?’ And he said, ‘Well, you’re going to have to start working the weekends.’”
And that’s exactly what Schwentker did.
“I worked the weekends, and Ray taught me how to shoot,” Schwentker said. “Ray was the reason why I got into the field.”
Hoffstetter’s induction into the KSDK Hall of Fame was one of many awards and honors he received throughout his career. He received the Distinguished Service Award from the St. Louis Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences in 1978 and was inducted into the NATAS Silver Circle in 2004.
He is survived by his wife, Judy, and three children. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Hoffstetter chose to serve on a destroyer escort, the USS Melvin R. Nawman, which was commissioned in early 1945.
He served as a gunner’s mate, manning a 20mm anti-aircraft gun. The ship was assigned to convoy duty in the Atlantic, protecting merchant ships from German U-boats.
After the war ended, Hoffstetter returned home to St. Louis. He married his high school sweetheart, Betty, and they had three children together. He worked for the U.S. Postal Service for over 30 years before retiring.
Throughout his life, Hoffstetter remained proud of his service in the Navy and his contribution to the war effort. He passed away in 2018 at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of courage, dedication, and service to his country.
Louis’ first television station, was looking for stagehands. He applied and was hired on the spot.
“I floated out of that building,” Hoffstetter said of the day he got the job. “I was walking on air.”
His career in television had begun, and he would go on to work in the industry for over 40 years, eventually becoming a producer and director.
We need someone to take care of the audio, and we think you can do it.’ And I said, ‘I can do it.’”
And just like that, Hoffstetter transitioned from stagehand to sound man, a role he would hold for many years at the station. His journey from a temporary stagehand to a permanent sound technician showcases his dedication and passion for the world of television production.
After capturing that historic moment, Hoffstetter’s reputation as a skilled cameraman grew even more. He continued to work at KSDK, capturing countless other memorable events and stories throughout the years.
Reflecting on his long career, Hoffstetter said, “I was just in the right place at the right time. I got to see and film things that most people could only dream of. It’s been a truly amazing journey.”
As he looked back on his time at the station, Hoffstetter expressed gratitude for the opportunities he was given and the experiences he had. “If you want the job, it’s yours,” those words from Ray Karpowicz set him on a path that would define his career.
He was always there to talk, to listen, to offer advice, to share stories,” said Bliss. “He was a great man, a great father, and a great journalist. I will miss him dearly.” Ray was a master at it. He knew how to load the camera, light the scene, and get the shot. Ray was always calm and collected, even when things got hectic. He had a way of making everyone around him feel at ease. He was a true professional, and I learned so much from him during my time at KSDK.”
—Dan Buck Former KSDK cameraman
“Ray was a mentor to so many of us at KSDK. He had a way of instilling confidence in those around him, and he always had a kind word to say. Ray’s knowledge of the industry was unparalleled, and his passion for storytelling was infectious. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of working with him.”
—Sandy Miller Former KSDK anchor/reporter
“Ray was not just a colleague, he was a friend. He was always there to lend an ear or offer advice. His presence at KSDK was truly irreplaceable. His dedication to his craft and his kindness towards others set him apart. Ray’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.”
—Anne Allred KSDK anchor/reporter
“Ray Hoffstetter was a legend at KSDK. His passion for storytelling and his commitment to excellence were evident in everything he did. Ray’s impact on the station and the community will never be forgotten. He leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.”
—Mike Roberts Former KSDK anchor/reporter
“Ray was a true professional in every sense of the word. His work ethic, his dedication, and his talent were unmatched. Ray’s contributions to KSDK and the field of journalism as a whole are immeasurable. He will always be remembered as a pillar of integrity and a beacon of inspiration.”
—Casey Nolen KSDK anchor/reporter
“Ray Hoffstetter was more than just a colleague; he was a mentor, a friend, and a true gentleman. His kindness, his generosity, and his unwavering commitment to excellence set him apart. Ray’s legacy will continue to shine brightly at KSDK, where his influence will be felt for years to come.”
—Courtney Bryant KSDK anchor/reporter
“Ray was a guiding light in the newsroom. His wisdom, his humor, and his humility were unmatched. Ray’s presence at KSDK was a gift to us all, and his legacy will live on in the stories we tell and the lives we touch. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”
—Ryan Dean KSDK anchor/reporter
“Ray Hoffstetter was the heart and soul of KSDK. His dedication to his craft, his passion for storytelling, and his unwavering commitment to excellence set him apart. Ray’s impact on the station and the community will be felt for generations to come. He was a true legend, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
Who was Raymond Hoffstetter and what was his career in television?
What iconic moment in baseball history is Raymond Hoffstetter known for capturing on video?
When did Raymond Hoffstetter express his passion for television and what impact did it have on his career?
How did Raymond Hoffstetter’s experience and expertise in television technology compare to that of young people today?
What was Raymond Hoffstetter’s role at KSDK and how did he contribute to the success of the station?
What personal qualities and stories about Raymond Hoffstetter were shared by his colleagues?
When and where did Raymond Hoffstetter pass away, and who confirmed his death?
His father had been in hospice care for the past several days. Despite this difficult time, Hoffstetter reflected on his career in television and expressed gratitude for the opportunities it had provided him. He was inducted into the KSDK Hall of Fame and spoke about the impact television has had on his life and the world. Hoffstetter’s career at KSDK began in 1948, when he was hired as a stagehand at the ninth television station in the United States. Over the years, he transitioned to become a photojournalist, inspired by the stories he saw and the desire to capture them himself. Hoffstetter’s dedication to storytelling and his willingness to adapt to new roles left a lasting impression on his colleagues, including chief photojournalist Randy Schwentker. Despite the challenges of the time, Hoffstetter’s passion for his work and his commitment to sharing important stories shone through. S. dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, leading to Japan’s surrender and the end of World War II. Hoffstetter’s service on the USS Mustin continued as the ship participated in occupation duties in Japan after the war. ’ I said, ‘Frank, I’ll do it.’”
And with that, Hoffstetter transitioned to the role of a sound technician, a position he held for the next 30 years until his retirement in 1996.
Reflecting on his time at KSDK, Hoffstetter said, “I loved every minute of it. I had so many great experiences.”
He also mentioned his work on the 1960 World Series broadcast and being part of the technical crew for the show “What’s My Line?”
“I just enjoyed it all,” Hoffstetter said. “I was doing what I wanted to do, and I was getting paid for it.”
Now retired and living in St. Louis with his wife, Hoffstetter can look back on a career that began with uncertainty after World War II but led to a lifelong passion for the world of television.
