Arlene Hofmann Named 2014 Tilden Outstanding Citizen

While Arlene Hofmann was surprised to be named this year’s Tilden Outstanding Citizen, it probably wasn’t that much of a surprise to anyone else in the community.

Hofmann was recognized during this weekend’s Tilden Prairie Days with the honor, which is sponsored by the Tilden Bank. She was told of the award about a week ago.

“My first thought was, ‘How nice!’ " Hofmann said. “I’ve been in a lot of organizations over the years, and I look at each one as an education experience. I’ve learned something from each group.”

Hoffmann either currently serves on or has served on boards for the Tilden Community Hospital, Elkhorn Valley School Foundation, Tilden Library Foundation, Elkhorn Valley TeamMates, Tilden Hospital Auxiliary and many others. She’s worked with the Cub Scouts and is the financial secretary for the United Methodist Church.

But that’s not all she does. Hofmann also plays bridge with five groups in Tilden and Norfolk and enjoys golfing - when she has the time, which is difficult considering her busy schedule.

"I am busy, but I enjoy it," Hofmann said Saturday following the parade, which she actually had three floats in - one she rode in, another her granddaughters used to advertise the variety show and the third was her 1957 Chevy for her church. Did we mention her involvement with organizing the variety show? Yes, she loves the Tilden Prairie Days, too. 

Hofmann has a long history in the community, which is why she said she enjoys giving back. Originally from Odell, Hofmann moved to Norfolk in 1964 with her husband, Chuck, who worked as a pharmacist. They opened Hofmann Pharmacy the next year and owned the business for 45 years. They sold the pharmacy seven years ago.

"Tilden was good to my family, and I feel like I can give back and help," Hofmann said.

The Hofmanns raised two sons in Tilden, Scott and David. Scott lives in Omaha and is an anesthesiologist at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. David is a senior executive in federal accounts for Merck Pharmaceuticals in Kansas City. Arlene Hofmann has five grandchildren.

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