Donald David Hoefling
December 6, 2025
JOHNSON CITY - Donald David Hoefling, 65, Johnson City, with Kimberly, AJ, and Carmen by his side, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus, to be reunited with his mother, after
a lengthy illness, Saturday, December 6, 2025, at his residence.
He was born in
Kenosha, WI and was
a son of Donald Henry Hoefling and the late Rita Ann Buttera Hoefling.
Donald was
a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy. He grew up in the Catholic church and was saved by Curtis Hurt from Grace Free Will Baptist Church in Johnson City.
Donald had
a lifelong passion for sports and collecting sports memorabilia, which eventually led him to own Model and Hobby World in Elizabethton. His love for athletics extended beyond collecting he played semi-pro football for the JC Bears, and his talent and dedication later led him to become the owner of the Tennessee Kings in Johnson City, around the late 80's early 90's.
a competitive weightlifter, Donald earned numerous awards throughout his lifting career. He loved all sports, especially football, and was
a devoted fan of Notre Dame and the Minnesota Vikings.
Donald worked as sales representative for JJ Haines Flooring, Classic Flooring, and CMH Flooring/Harris Tarkett.
Donald lived life fully and loved deeply. His greatest joy was his family, and he was always there for them especially his "girls," Kimberly and daughter, AJ whom he cared for with unwavering devotion.
In addition to his father, survivors include his caregiver and loving wife, Kimberly Hambrick Laws Hoefling; daughter, Allison "AJ" Hoefling; sister, Julie Nicholson (John); brother, Jamie Hoefling (Julie "JJ" Hernandez); niece, Hallie Hoefling; nephews, Chip Pennell (Jennifer) and Roman Hoefling; great niece, Oaklee Hoefling; great nephew, Beckett Pennell; furry friend, Leo; special friends, Mike Stevens, Justin Mango, Mel's Coins and Cards, Scott Smile; special neighbor, Carmen Bowers; bookkeeper and tax professional, Carol Tartaglia; oncologist at the VA, Margie.
The calling hours will be Wednesday-Thursday, December 10-11, 2025, during business hours at Tetrick Funeral Services, Johnson City.
The graveside service will be held Friday, December 12, 2025, at 10:00 am in Mountain Home Memorial Park with Curtis Hurt, officiating. Military Honors will be provided by Veterans Honor Guard of The Tri Cities. Pallbearers will be chosen from friends and family. Those who wish to attend are asked to meet at the funeral home by 9:30 am.
In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation at <
a href="http://www.t2t.org" target="_new" rel="nofollow">www.t2t.orga>.
The family would like to extend
a special thank you to the staff at Amedisys
hospice, especially Makaya and Jillian; Dr. Grover and staff at Thompson Proton Center in Knoxville; Home Instead of Johnson City; and the Johnson City Medical Center.
Memories and condolences may be shared at <
a href="http://www.tetrickfuneralservices.com" target="_new" rel="nofollow">www.tetrickfuneralservices.coma>.
Tetrick Funeral Services, 3001 Peoples St.
Johnson City, TN 37604 is honored to serve the Hoefling family (423-610-7171).

Published by Johnson City Press from Dec. 9 to Dec. 10, 2025.