Donald Francis Poorman

September 25, 1952 – September 8, 2026

Donald Francis “Don” Poorman, 73, of Mullica Hill, New Jersey, passed away peacefully surrounded by love at his home on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, just weeks shy of his 74th birthday. He was a longtime resident of Washington Township, New Jersey, before moving to his daughter’s farm in Mullica Hill.

Born on September 25, 1952, in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, Don was the son of Albert Poorman and Myrtle (Bensley) Poorman. He graduated from Stroudsburg High School and carried his classic PA roots with him to Syracuse University, where he earned his degree in Civil Engineering.

Following college, Don married the love of his life, Elizabeth Hoffner, and settled in Washington Township to raise their family. He spent many dedicated years as a Civil Engineer with the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFACENGCOM) at the Philadelphia Navy Yard before retiring.

An active and high-energy man throughout his life, Don was happiest when he was outdoors or surrounded by people. An avid athlete, he spent countless weekends bowling, fishing, golfing, and playing softball. When he was no longer able to run the bases himself, Don simply shifted gears so he could stay part of the game he loved—stepping onto the field as a trusted umpire for local Little League baseball and softball, as well as refereeing midget football.

Don also loved being on the water fishing, proudly naming his boat “Isabella” after his granddaughter. After retiring from NAVFACENGCOM, he embraced a new and deeply meaningful role as a daily caretaker for Bella. He spent his days taking her fishing, teaching her how to make breakfast, and passing along his love for the little things in life.

When he wasn’t on the field or out on the boat, Don loved retreating to his woodshop. A skilled craftsman, he spent hours shaping, sanding, and building pieces with patience and heart. His proudest creation was a beautiful heirloom cradle—a labor of love that took so much time and care that, though he started it when his grandson Dominick was born, it was completed just in time to welcome Bella.

About ten months before his passing, Don moved to “our farm.” He took immense joy in farm life and loved telling anyone who would listen all about the land, the deer passing through, the chickens, and the countless small wonders that made “our farm” so special to him.

Don was predeceased by his beloved wife of 51 years, Elizabeth (Hoffner) Poorman, who passed away in May 2025, and by his parents.

He is survived by his children, Laura (Dominick) Profico, Aaron Poorman, and Kelly (Brendan) Reddy-Best; his grandchildren, Dominick (Alicia) Profico, Carter Profico, Isabella Profico, and AJ Poorman; his brother, Rob (Mickey) Poorman; and many loving nieces, nephews, and friends.

Family and friends are welcome to attend his visitation   Friday, September 18^th, 10:00 – 11:00  am at The First Presbyterian  Church Pitman, 10 Wildwood Ave. , Pitman, NJ 08071. Funeral service 11:00 am.

“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering”