MPhA Mourns the Loss of the Hortmans

The tragic events of Saturday morning, June 14, involving Speaker Hortman, her husband Mark, and their dear friends Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette, remain heavy on our hearts and minds. Today, Representative Hortman, Mark Hortman, and their beloved golden retriever, Gilbert, will lie in state at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul.

Speaker Hortman was an extraordinary leader and her passing is a profound loss for the State of Minnesota. Her legacy is marked by countless achievements, but it was her grace, strength, and unwavering character that truly set her apart. The Capitol will not be the same without her presence, and neither will Minnesota.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Hoffman family during this unimaginable time. Senator Hoffman has long been the strongest voice for Minnesota pharmacy in the legislature—and a tireless advocate for those who are too often unheard: the disabled, the elderly, and children. We believe in his strength, and we look forward to the day he returns to continue the fight for a better Minnesota. In the meantime, we all stand ready to offer our support in any way we can.

The Hortmans asked that people do an act of kindness in the memory of their parents’ commitment to service, sharing a list of suggestions, “something, whether big or small, to make our community just a little better for someone else.”

They suggested planting a tree, telling a dad joke, and baking something to share—“bread for Mark or a cake for Melissa.”

“Pet a dog,” was on the list “A golden retriever is ideal but any will do.” 

The said, “Hope and resilience are the enemy of fear. Our parents lived their lives with immense dedication to their fellow humans. This tragedy must become a moment for us to come together. Hold your loved ones a little closer. Love your neighbors. Treat each other with kindness and respect.”  

If you’re interested in helping, here are a few suggested places you can donate.

• Senator John & Yvette Hoffman’s GoFundme page
• The Hortman children’s GoFundme page
• Helping Paws