Geoff Hoff passed away recently, and the world will never be quite the same. Geoff and I had been friends since meeting at an event in Austin, Texas during 2009. Actually, we had met online almost a year earlier, but it wasn’t until we were face to face that we were truly connected.
Within a year I had been instrumental in launching him to the world as a speaker, copywriter, and person to know if you were in the world of online marketing. He was a talented writer and storyteller and I like to think that I assisted him in sharing his gifts with a much wider audience than he had previously. It was my pleasure to be a mentor to him, but over time we experienced something of a role reversal as he began to play a more significant role in most of the work I was doing online.
With Geoff I was willing to step out of my box as an introvert and do some things I had not dared to do previously. This included singing a duet of “Sweet Caroline” with him in front of an audience of more than a thousand people at Armand Morin’s Big Seminar in 2010, writing a full length book with him in only seven days in 2011, and hosting my own live events starting in 2012 after only doing this previously with Dr. Jeanette Cates. Geoff gave me the courage to put aside my fears and become my own person in so many aspects of my life.
Over the years we began to intertwine our businesses, and we both benefited from the collaboration. We wrote two books together, as well as compiling several books on a number of topics. This led to the creation of our publishing company, Hunter’s Moon, through which we proudly published the work of a number of authors, primarily in the non-fiction, business genre.
We both continued to write on our own, and Geoff went on to write a sequel to the satirical novel he had written with partner Steve Mancini. These works were based on a comedy web series called Poor Paul, which is currently being made into a feature film. He and Steve, nominated in 2009 for a Webby for this writing, are even listed on the show’s Wikipedia page, something I used to tease him about regularly.
But we were much more than business partners. Geoff and I had become close friends, confidants, mastermind partners, and so much more. It’s difficult for me to imagine what life will be like now that he is no longer at the other end of the phone line. He was the kindest, most giving person I ever met, putting his own life on hold to help others in need. And he never said no when asked a favor by someone he knew. This past summer I emailed him from Europe to ask if he could pick me up at the airport the following day. He answered quickly that this would not be a problem, and took me to his apartment where I was able to shower, go online to do some things for my business, and make some phone calls before having him drive me to meet a colleague with whom I had agreed to connect with later that evening at a hotel near LAX. Without hesitation, and without asking me any personal questions about what I was doing and with whom, I waved goodbye and made the appointment I so needed to keep.
At the time of his passing Geoff and I had more than a dozen projects in the works. These included two new courses, another full length book, and a membership site. He had a number of his own projects going as well, including a full length science fiction novel that I expected to be the best work of his career.
Geoff Hoff was much more than a writer. He was also a fine artist, a sculptor, an actor, and a director. That one person could accomplish so much is such a short lifetime will continue to amaze me. I can only hope to be as productive as he was if I live another twenty years.
This year has been a difficult one for me personally, having lost several other close friends and family members within a very short period of time. What has been different with this is that Geoff’s passing has been so public. Even though some of the others I have lost have been people who were in my life much longer than Geoff was, in each case I’ve been allowed to mourn in private. For the first three days after his passing I did grieve in private, along with his family, close friends, and those in my online Incubator and Platinum Mastermind groups who knew and loved him as well. After his brother posted about his death on his Facebook wall and mentioned me by name, I awoke on the forth day to hundreds of email messages, text messages, phone calls, and social media comments. This was new territory for me, and something that has definitely taken me out of my comfort zone. I finally know something of what it must be like for celebrities and others living in the public eye, and I do not envy their position in the least.
When I broke the news to our editor the question finally came up as to what was to become of a book Geoff had revised for release right after the first of the year. The most beautiful way to end something that you had wanted so badly to last forever is with a new beginning. The updated version of Poppycock will be released soon.
This is Maggie. She was – and still is Geoff’s cat, but she lives at my house now. Maggie can be quite introspective at times, and is my constant reminder of Geoff. I like to think the two of them are in regular contact and that when she stares up into space they are having a conversation. We have been together for one year now, and I can’t imagine life without her.
Thank you for this. I’ve known Geoff all my life, and there were so many aspects of what he did that I had no knowledge of. I knew of you, and that you and he worked together on a couple of books, but I had no idea of just how busy he was! I hope to meet you sometime.
And I would love to meet you as well, Rachel. Geoff spoke of you often, sharing stories from childhood. He was a very special friend.
Connie
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
It’s was so nice to meet Geoff at your event in October. I did not know who he was or the connection you had with him, but I could tell right away he was someone special. I wish I would have spent more time with him that weekend.
Connie this is an awesome tribute and it’s so nice to know how close you guys were… it makes it even more special for me (and I am sure so many others)!
It’s so hard to say goodbye and as we get older we attend less weddings and more funerals – a sad fact of live. I appreciate you and your candidness and the opportunity to spend time with you and someone you hold so near and dear to your heart. RIP Geoff… you were an inspiration and a good man.
Thanks for your kind words, Brian. He was quite impressed with your knowledge of social media and marketing, and had expressed interest in connecting with you in the future. We just never know when it is our time.
Connie
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
What a lovely message you have written Connie to honor Geoff. Honoring our lost ones is important as we integrate such a huge loss. I also want to thank you for bringing your personal grief out in public. As a society we tend to hide or repress our grief and this helps no one. I want to share with you that I have launched my new book Resilient Heart: Transcending the Death of Your Loved One and it has become a best-seller on Amazon. I am so thankful that it is rippling out the message that we can not only get through the pain of loss but we can transform in the process to become even more loving and compassionate human beings. Sending you and all those mourning Geoff’s physical presence heart hugs.
Thanks so much for stopping by, Gail. It was not my intention to be so public with this, but Geoff and I chose to be in the public eye and now I must share some of my private thoughts with the world.
Connie Ragen Green
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
Connie, this is a beautiful tribute. Geoff was such a special person to so many. It is because of you that I met Geoff and he became a special person in my life as well. Thank you for that.
Adrienne Dupree recently posted…My Tribute To Geoff Hoff
Adrienne,
Geoff had a special connection with you like none other. He loved and respected you and all that you continue to achieve in your business.
Thank you for your friendship and support as this unfolded during those first several days.
Connie
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
Connie – What a fitting tribute for Geoff. I hope you take the time you need to grieve for you friend and business partner. Take care.
Laurie,
Geoff so enjoyed spending time with you in Atlanta last year. Thank you for your comment. Yes, I am taking the time to grieve and focusing on all of the joy Geoff brought to my life over these past seven years. He was one of a kind!
Connie
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
Because you set it up, Geoff and I shared a room in Las Vegas at a seminar and I got a chance to know a bit about him. We discussed our challenges and our strong points. We both appreciated your help, Connie and it has been both educational and inspirational to watch you assist Geoff in his growth and career advancement. Well done, Connie!
Thanks so much for this, Dale. He thought you the most fascinating man he had encountered in years, and admired all that you had achieved in your life so far. I will tell you that Geoff assisted me with my growth far more than I ever could have with his.
Connie
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
Hey Connie,
Geoff was a patriot & an incredible human being. I never had the good fortune of meeting him, but had the pleasure of chatting personally with him on the phone.
He was responsible for setting up my blog. He was a truly gifted marketer who will be missed in the IM world.
I grieve with you for his loss. I wish you nothing but the best!
George
Thanks so much, George. Yes, he was gifted as a marketer, and in so many other areas as well. He will be truly missed, and touched so many lives all over the world.
Connie
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
Connie, a lovely written tribute about your friend Geoff Hoff. My sincere condolences to you and wishing you peace of heart as you continue to honor Geoff in your work. And of course to Geoff’s cat Maggie, who is so fortunate to have a new home with you and your bevy of dogs.
Thank you for your kind words, Gwenn. Yes, Maggie will live in my home in Santa Clarita, where there is another cat and several small dogs, as well as people to care for her in a loving way. I’m there about ten days each month, and whenever I see her I am reminded of my sweet memories of Geoff.
Connie
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
Connie,
Thank you for sharing your tribute. Geoff was one of the most creative people I’ve ever met, and so generous in sharing those gifts.
Getting to spend time with Geoff was always one of the highlights at the events I attended.
Kimberly Schramm
Kimberly,
Geoff thought the world of you because of your creative mind and joie de vivre. May his spirit live on forever through our daily actions and gentle memories.
Connie
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
Thank you so much for sharing your loving memories of Geoff and all the wonderful things you did together in business. I know he treasured your friendship too and if he were here would be humbled by your touching tribute.
Perhaps he is smiling down on all of us now. I look forward to the new release of his book.
Kit
Thank you, Kit. I know that you and Geoff has a special friendship and that he thought very highly of you and of your accomplishments. Yes, I believe he is smiling down upon us, and that makes me smile for so many reasons.
Connie
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
I have been on an extended trip, visiting my grandchildren in Texas, and have been mostly unplugged. I have just arrived home, and want to take the time to express my feelings about Geoff. We became friends because of you. We had a lot of phone time, and shared many stories. He sent me a copy of his fictional book, and we laughed a lot about the characters. Then, at NAMS, over the years, I got to spend a lot of time with him. Actually, it was probably not a LOT of time, but the moments together were so precious, they seemed to make me feel full. We always hugged a lot. I really loved him, and I know he knew this. Losing special people is always so hard, but a part of life. I will always thank you for getting me started years ago, when Sue and I attended yours and Jeanette’s conference in Vegas. That’s where I also met Mynders, who has become a close friend. It’s amazing to me all that has happened in the past 5 years. I have something I’d like to mail to you right away. It will bless you. If you would, please, use my email or a private message on Facebook, and give me a good mailing address. It will be a small package. Big hugs to you, Connie. I love you, too!
Jeanne Kolenda recently posted…The Gift
Jeanne – thanks so very much for your kind words. The relationships we are forming through our online businesses will continue to bless our lives. Even though this is a painful time, I am comforted by the memories and in knowing that life does indeed go on.
Connie
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
A beautiful tribute to a great ally, Connie. I’m ever grateful for your introduction to Geoff when you suggested he guest post on my blog. He was easy to work with and generous. It’s good to know you two found one another and both had the opportunity to grow in ways you’d never imagined. My heart goes out to you as you’ve lost a most valuable friend.
Debra Marrs recently posted…With Gratitude and Thank YOU
Debra, so wonderful to hear from you again after all of this time. I did go back and reread his post of your blog, and once again I am in awe of his wisdom and expertise in the field of writing.
Connie Ragen Green
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
Thank you for sharing such a beautiful tribute to a beautiful man. I am so grateful that you connected me with Geoff last March. Ever since then, he has been such a joy to me and for me. We shared philosophies on writing, editing, and design—and he educated me so gently in the Internet marketing arena. He was always patient and kind, no matter how ignorant I was!
I am deeply saddened by his passing, though I know he just transitioned to total freedom from all of our earthly worries. I think of him often and see his influence all around me. He really made a big impact on me.
I look forward to the spring release of his book, Poppycock. I wish I had received his sci-fi novel before he left: I was due to edit that one as well. I suppose it is a good reminder for me that there is no time like the present.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful friend and colleague with us all, Connie. Geoff was a sweetie with such a big heart and so much talent. His physical presence will be missed, but we will still hold him dear to our hearts.
Blessings,
Tanya
PS And thanks for giving a loving home to Maggie the Cat.
Maggie the Cat sends her best, Tanya. She is a daily reminder of Geoff, and for that I am thankful.
Geoff’s brother has finally accessed his files, so he will be able to send you the science fiction work to edit.
I still miss him every day, and have come to terms with how that will affect the way that I carry on from this point forward in my life and in my business.
Connie
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Geoff Hoff – In Loving Memory of a Memorable Man
Geoff did the level of computer tech work for me that I couldn’t do for the last 5 years. We got close during that time. I knew if something went wrong, Geoff was going to be there and fix it on any of my websites. I think of him daily and will miss him tremendously. Long ago he did stand up comedy so when recently I started standup, we could chat about that too. I know he’s still looking over my shoulder. Love and miss you and will for a long time to come.
Lindy Baker recently posted…Cyber Monday Gift Certificate Mind Blowing Price
I appreciate your comment, Lindy.
Connie Ragen Green
Geoff was so easy to work with! He did some tech work for me. Sadly we didn’t get to know each other well but I could appreciate his skill and integrity.
So nice that you took Maggie! She’s beautiful. My current cats Moka and Creampuff send their best wishes and remind her to appreciate the good life she has now.
Perhaps someday Maggie, Moka, and Creampuff will become bicoastal and share two homes – one on the East coast and the other on the West coast!
Connie Ragen Green
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Content Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing
It is hard to believe that it has been a year since Geoff went off to dance with the universe. He has probably performed on many stages and written many more pages by now. I still see his bright smiling face. I have not removed the shared files from my computer—our work together still remains.
What a blessing he was to so many. His impact still evident.
Blessings,
Tanya
Tanya Brockett recently posted…Thankful Living
Thanks, Tanya. I hope that some day his latest book can be published. It is in safe and loving hands with you.
Connie Ragen Green
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Content Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing
Connie,
How truly blessed you were to have had such a wonderful friend and work companion. That is something many never have the opportunity to experience. Your tribute to Geoff is beautiful and very moving. You were so lucky to have had him as a friend, but I know he is looking down feeling he was so very lucky to have had YOU as his friend.
Thank you very much, Marilyn. I appreciate you.
Connie Ragen Green
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Content Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing
I have everything he taught me and shared with me on my laptop, so every now and then I either choose to take a peak or something sneaks up on me and reminds me of Geoff. He was a self proclaimed curmudgeon, but I knew him to be “crunchy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside…” He had a raucous laugh when something outside of the norm tickled his fancy. I’ll never forget his reaction when I told him that, for my health business, I had purchased the domain… DontStuffYourPieHoleWithCrap.com There was a pause when I was a little panicky as to what his response would be as he was completely silent. Then he let out that wonderful laugh of his when he was taken completely by surprise. It’s a moment I’ll never forget.
Thanks so much for sharing these stories with us here, Cheryl.
Connie Ragen Green
Connie Ragen Green recently posted…Content Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing