On Tuesday, August 27, 2024, Rachel Murial Hoeft of Fort Atkinson, passed away at St. Mary’s Hospital of Madison at the age of 33 years with family by her side.

Rachel was born on May 4, 1991, in the country of Romania and was adopted by William and Holly (Benner) Williams during the first weeks of Rachel’s life.  She grew up in Oconomowoc, WI, graduated from Oconoomowoc High School in 2009, and attended Carroll College in Waukesha afterwards.  On April 22, 2018, she married Jon Hoeft in Fort Atkinson after a lengthy courtship.  Rachel was an animal and music lover.  She had a contagious laugh that is remembered fondly and often.  Her care and sensitivity to other people’s feelings was always considered, and empathy was one of her most valued and defining character qualities.  Rachel always accepted people for who they were, providing people with much comfort during times of personal hardship.  She was a true friend, loving daughter, and valued sister who put others before herself.  What Rachel gave in life; she also chose to give in death.  Rachel selflessly gave the gift of life through organ donation. Her gifts have touched the lives of many and impacted families, friends, and communities more than we’ll ever know. Her kindness and empathy was admired by many, and she will be dearly missed. 

She is survived by: her husband Jon Hoeft of Fort Atkinson; her parents William Williams of Oconomowoc and Holly Benner of Fort Atkinson; her sisters Rebecca Williams of Waukesha, Amy Williams of Hartford and Anna (Chase) Martin of West Bend; nephew William Martin and niece Ada Martin. Rachel is also survived by a number of other relatives and many friends.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents.

A memorial service in Rachel’s honor will be held at 1:00PM on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at the Olsen-Gibson Funeral Home of Jefferson.  Visitation will be on Saturday from 11:00AM until the time of service at the funeral home.