Barbara and Michael Hoeft

Barbara Hoeft

Barbara and Michael Hoeft shared more than four decades of dedication to conserving wildlife and their habitats.

Barbara and Michael Hoeft’s journey began in Michigan, where Barbara grew up in Grosse Pointe and Michael was raised on a farm near Ann Arbor. Their paths crossed at the University of Michigan, where they both pursued their studies and shared a passion for the outdoors. It was during a 1967 summer geology course at the university’s Camp Davis in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, that they first met. Attracted by Michael’s eye-catching red Oldsmobile F-85, Barbara felt an instant connection. They married in 1968, and Barbara graduated the following year. Michael completed his degree in 1971.

Michael’s pursuit of knowledge led him to the University of Illinois, where he earned his master of fine arts degree in 1973. After graduation, he became the director of education at Huntington Galleries, now known as the Huntington Museum of Art, in West Virginia. His career underwent a significant change when he joined the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR), where he specialized in fisheries. Settling in West Virginia, the Hoefts expanded their family, and in 1981, Barbara launched her career at Merrill Lynch while also pursuing her master of business administration degree at Marshall University.

Through friendships at the DNR, Michael learned about Ducks Unlimited’s conservation mission, and he began supporting local fundraising events. His charismatic nature led him to volunteer for local chapter committees, and by the late 1980s, he became DU’s state chair in West Virginia. At a time when DU events were largely male-dominated, Michael took it upon himself to champion women’s participation, exploring ways to create a more welcoming environment. Over the years, the couple’s involvement grew as they attended DU’s national conventions and became Life Sponsors.

Barbara often accompanied Michael on his hunting trips, but it wasn’t until 1997 that she obtained her own hunting license. This milestone marked the beginning of their shared passion for hunting and established a tradition of annual trips. Every year they traveled to North Dakota, Kansas, or Iowa to hunt ducks and pheasants.

In 2002, Michael founded his own company, H3, which he grew over the course of 20 years into a thriving land management business. His business endeavors were always linked to conservation, culminating in significant land donations to local conservation organizations. One notable philanthropic act included the purchase of Gallipolis Island, which was later donated to the West Virginia Land Trust, demonstrating a commitment to preserving natural habitats. This tract went on to become part of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

The Hoefts’ philanthropic legacy continued with their support for local wildlife projects, including a $50,000 donation to DU for restoration work at the Meadow River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in 2021, and a marsh that bears their name attracts hunters, anglers, birders, and hikers at Green Bottom WMA. Michael’s passing in 2023 marked a profound loss but left behind a powerful legacy of conservation and community engagement. Barbara remains dedicated to honoring his memory and believes firmly in DU’s mission and the importance of conserving natural spaces for future generations.

For Barbara, the motivation for conservation is deeply personal, both for herself and as a tribute to Michael’s vision. She understands that their journey has the potential to inspire others to appreciate and protect the environment. Through their shared efforts, they have had a meaningful impact on the land and wildlife of West Virginia.

Barbara stays actively involved with organizations whose missions align closely with both her values and Michael’s, including DU and the West Virginia Land Trust. Additionally, she strongly advocates for the prevention of child neglect and abuse and serves on the board of TEAM for West Virginia Children, based in Huntington. Barbara’s commitment to honoring Michael’s legacy is a poignant reminder that the true measure of a life well lived lies in what we give back to the world around us.