104-Year-Old Chicago Woman Sets Skydiving Record



A remarkable 104-year-old Chicago woman, Dorothy Hoffner, recently set a world record as the oldest person to skydive at age 104. Just a week after her historic jump, Hoffner passed away peacefully in her sleep. Her daring spirit and bold achievement serve as a powerful reminder that age truly is just a number.

Dorothy Hoffner, at 104, set a world skydiving record.

• A week after her jump, she passed away peacefully in her sleep.

• Her record is being submitted to Guinness for posthumous certification.

• Hoffner’s life and actions inspire courage and joy beyond her passing.

A Record-Breaking Leap of Faith by a 104-Year-Old Chicago Woman


The incredible story of Dorothy Hoffner, a 104-year-old Chicago woman, has captured the hearts and minds of people worldwide. Recently, this inspiring Chicago native set a new world record as the oldest person to skydive. Just a week after her remarkable feat, Hoffner passed away peacefully in her sleep, but her story lives on, reminding us all that age is no barrier to adventure and bravery.

104 year old Chicago woman

Oldest Woman Setting the Record


On October 1, 2023, Dorothy Hoffner completed a tandem skydive from 13,500 feet at Skydive Chicago in Ottawa, Illinois. In her typical fearless fashion, she left her walker behind, climbed the plane steps with help, and cheerfully declared, “Let’s go, Geronimo!” She was assisted by a certified instructor from the U.S. Parachute Association, tethered together as they leaped from the plane, symbolizing her determination to defy expectations.

“Let’s go, let’s go, Geronimo!” Hoffner enthusiastically shouted as she prepared for her leap. Her spirit was contagious as the crowd cheered her on, proving that this “old Chicago woman” was as ready as ever to reach new heights.

A Moment of Triumph and Legacy for 104 Old Woman

Hoffner’s leap was set to be recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest skydiver, surpassing the previous record of a 103-year-old woman from Sweden. Skydive Chicago and her caregivers were working to certify the feat posthumously to honor her life and adventurous spirit.

Hoffner’s record-breaking skydive is being submitted to Guinness World Records, aiming to officially certify her as the oldest person to skydive. Her achievement surpasses that of a 103-year-old Swedish woman, the previous record-holder. Though Hoffner passed away on October 9, just a week after her historic jump, her life and legacy as a fearless 104-year-old Chicago woman continue to inspire. Skydive Chicago and her caregivers are working together to honor her achievement posthumously, celebrating a life marked by courage and resilience.

Inspiring Generations Beyond Her Life

Although Hoffner passed away on October 9, just days after her jump, her story continues to inspire countless people. Friends and caregivers remember her as vibrant and full of life, leaving a legacy of bravery and boundless enthusiasm. As Skydive Chicago works to have her record certified, Hoffner’s story stands as a celebration of resilience and the relentless pursuit of joy at any age.

What can we learn from 104-year-old, Chicago woman Dorothy Hoffner?

Dorothy Hoffner’s story is one of courage and joy, demonstrating that life’s greatest adventures aren’t limited by age. Her memory endures as a source of inspiration for all who knew her and those who read about her daring achievements.

Hoffner’s achievement inspires all generations, proving that adventure and personal growth aren’t constrained by age. Her story teaches us:

  • Age is Just a Number: At 104, this Chicago woman demonstrated that life’s adventures are only limited by one’s willingness to take risks.
  • Boldness Can Inspire: Hoffner’s courage to take on a skydiving challenge at her age speaks to the power of fearlessness.
  • Legacy Beyond Records: Her story, though marked by her record, extends beyond it as a source of joy, bravery, and resilience.
  • Finding Joy at Every Age: Hoffner’s skydive stands as a reminder to pursue what brings joy, regardless of age.

Celebrating a Remarkable 104-Year-Old Chicago Woman

Dorothy Hoffner’s story is an inspiration to people of all ages. This 104-year-old Chicago woman proved that courage knows no bounds. With her unforgettable skydive, she left an enduring legacy of resilience, joy, and a love for life that will inspire generations to come.

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