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World’s Oldest Skydiver Dies One Week After Getting Her Title

By Orgesta Tolaj

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20 October 2023

world's oldest skydiver

What is making you step back from skydiving? Is it fear, anxiety, or any other reason? Or, is it just the fact that you just do not have to skydive? Well, this woman is here to prove you wrong. In a remarkable testament to the indomitable spirit of adventure at any age, Dorothy Hoffner, a 104-year-old woman, recently captured the world’s attention by setting a remarkable record in the world of skydiving. Her adventure wasn’t just about breaking records. It was about her strong desire to make the most of life. Let’s explore Dorothy Hoffner’s incredible journey, from her secret love for skydiving to how she gained the title “World’s Oldest Skydiver.”

Who Is the World’s Oldest Skydiver?

Dorothy Hoffner, the remarkable 104-year-old woman who made headlines by setting a world record for skydiving on October 1, has sadly passed away. Her achievement drew international attention as she became the oldest person to ever skydive. Prior to Dorothy Hoffner’s daring jump, the title of the oldest parachutist was held by Sweden’s Rut Linnéa Ingegärd Larsson. This was recognized by Guinness World Records, who earned this distinction in May 2022 at the age of 103. Dorothy Hoffner’s remarkable accomplishment will be remembered as a testament to the indomitable spirit of adventure at any age.

Her Passing

Skydive Chicago and the United States Parachute Association have confirmed the passing of Dorothy Hoffner, the 104-year-old skydiver who set a world record. They expressed their deep sadness at her passing and felt honored to have played a part in making her record-breaking skydive possible. Additionally, they were working with Guinness World Records to officially certify her accomplishment.

Skydive Chicago announced: “We are deeply saddened by Dorothy’s passing and feel honored to have been a part of making her world-record skydive a reality.”

Her Friends React

Dorothy Hoffner’s close friend, Joe Conant, revealed to The Chicago Tribune that she passed away peacefully in her sleep. However, her death was unexpected, coming as a shock to those who knew her. He described her as an inspiration, saying she gave an incredible amount of spirit and life to everyone she touched. Conant, who had been a caregiver at Brookdale Senior Living, met Hoffner five years ago. He remembered sharing his plans to go skydiving with her around 2019.

world's oldest skydiver
© Charles Lane

How Did Dorothy Hoffner Become the World’s Oldest Skydiver?

Upon hearing about Joe Conant’s plans to go skydiving, Dorothy Hoffner surprised him by expressing her eagerness to participate. Conant initially thought she wanted to watch, but to his astonishment, she wanted to join in. She enthusiastically embraced the idea and, shortly after, at the age of 100, Dorothy Hoffner successfully completed her first skydive.

However, Dorothy Hoffner chose not to inform her family about her skydiving adventures until her record-setting jump made the front page of the Tribune. Initially, she was not keen on the media attention she received for her feat. However, she later came to accept and embrace being in the spotlight. Additionally, her motivation for skydiving was her personal desire to experience it, rather than seeking a world record, as emphasized by her friend Joe Conant.

Would be willing to risk it all through sky-diving? What is holding you back? Comment down below what you think of Dorothy’s decision!

You might also want to read: Disneyland’s First Customer Used His Lifelong Pass Every Year!

Orgesta Tolaj

Your favorite introvert who is buzzing around the Hive like a busy bee!

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