Friends, neighbors remember lives lost in Kandiyohi Cty. crash

8:26 AM, Aug 20, 2012   |    comments
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EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. - Friends and neighbors remember those lost in a head-on crash in Kandiyohi County Friday night.

"You always knew she cared about you," said Pam Borgman of Eden Priaire. "They were a very close family."

Michelle Hoffman, her 8-year old daughter Julia, and her mother-in-law Marta Stoffers all died in the crash. Michelle's 5-year old son is recovering at HCMC in Minneapolis.

According to the State Patrol, the four family members had seen a movie in Willmar and were returning to their grandmother's home in Atwater. Their vehicle was then hit by a pickup truck which crossed the center line. Authorities suspect the driver had been drinking. 

The Hoffman's own a home in Eden Prairie, but have spent the past two school years overseas as teachers. The family of six returned to Minnesota for the summer. 

"Michelle was so vivacious and so compassionate," says Borgman. "She's a good mom and this is an unbelievable loss."

The incident leaves friends with heavy hearts for a family dealing with the loss of three people, including an 8-year old girl.

"Julia was just over here playing with our dogs," said Borgman. "She was so respectful and fun-loving."

(Copyright 2012 by KARE. All Rights Reserved.)