World’s oldest skydiver dies after record-breaking jump
Just weeks after becoming the oldest person to complete a tandem skydive, 104-year-old Dorothy Hoffner has passed away.
On October 1st, the Chicago native broke a world record by jumping out of a plane with a professional skydiver.
Her incredible display of bravery captured global attention, with her amazing feat being recognised by the Guinness World Records association.
Less than two weeks after her historic freefall, Dorothy passed away peacefully.
In a statement to People magazine, Skydive Chicago and the United States Parachute Association confirmed the news of her death.
“We are deeply saddened by Dorothy’s passing and feel honoured to have been a part of making her world-record skydive a reality,” the statement read.
“Skydiving is an activity that many of us safely tuck away in our bucket lists. But Dorothy reminds us that it’s never too late to take the thrill of a lifetime.”
“We are forever grateful that skydiving was a part of her exciting, well-lived life.”
“Her legacy is even more remarkable because of the attention the world gave to her inspiring story.”
According to a close friend of Hoffner’s, Joe Conant, the Chicago record-breaker passed away peacefully in her sleep.
He also told the Chicago Tribune that despite her 104 years, her death was unexpected.
“It came as quite a shock,” Conant said.
“She gave an incredible amount of her spirit and life to all of us, and it inspired all of us.”
Image credits: ABC 7 Chicago / Skydive Chicago