John L. Hoff

Class of 1907 John Hoff graduated from Ottawa High in 1907 before beginning his teaching career in Seneca, Illinois. He then joined the staff of Ottawa Township High School one year later, where he embarked on a long and illustrious career until his death in December, 1955.

John Hoff taught

mathematics during his tenure, and was noted for his chalk-marked blue suit.

He also spent endless hours

working with various music groups as the director of music, endeavoring to impart his love and appreciation of music to Ottawa’s youth. He was known for his vigorous enthusiasm leading the student body in the singing of the school song “Pep,” for which he wrote the music. “Pep” was first published in 1914.