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The disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa overshadows his life.
The renowned labor leader, who served as the former president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, had a tranquil retreat where he could unwind with his family away from the public eye.
Hoffa’s hideaway was a modest wooden house and compound on the edge of Lake Orion, situated 38 miles north of Detroit. It was Hoffa’s cherished escape where he spent many years with his loved ones. However, it was also the place he left on the fateful afternoon of July 30th, 1975, to attend a meeting that led to his mysterious disappearance.
The James R. Hoffa home, a modest-looking two-story frame building on the shore of Lake Orion, about forty miles north of Detroit. (Bettmann Archive/Getty Images)
“He adored this place,” shared Hoffa’s son James. “When he was here, he was just Dad.”
This summer, Fox Nation explored the house with Mr. Hoffa and his son David as part of the series “Riddle, The Search for James R. Hoffa.” The final episodes of the series shed light on the significance of the lake house to the family.
The Hoffas sold the house in 1986, yet it remains almost unchanged from the summer of 1975, many years later.
Jimmy Hoffa’s big wood console TV set still sits in the living room. (Fox Nation)
Jimmy Hoffa’s belongings are still present. His wood-paneled console TV remains in the living room where he enjoyed watching it. The books on the shelf date back to 1975, the year of his disappearance. His 1975 “Who’s Who in America,” among others, sit beside his “The Celebrity Register” and “Men of Achievement.”
The old green shag carpet still covers the living room floor.
Jimmy Hoffa’s carved wooden Totem Pole still stands overlooking the lake.
Even his white and orange garden tractor, a 3415 H Simplicity, used for mowing the lawn, remains in the backyard.
Jimmy Hoffa used this garden tractor to mow his own lawn. It is still there. (Fox Nation)
“Despite his busy schedule, he was a devoted father who always made time for his family. He was a true family man,” remarked James. He mentioned that his father handled home repairs, constructed parts of the house himself, cleared trees and brush, and tended to the yard.
“He was a dedicated worker through and through,” he added.
This summer will see a new chapter for the Hoffa house. It was purchased by Susan and John Hagen, who intend to renovate it while honoring its unique history.
“We were aware that the house was Jimmy Hoffa’s summer estate when we first laid eyes on it,” shared John Hagen with Fox Nation. “We were the only ones interested in restoring the property, as others wanted to demolish it.”
Hoffa riding his garden tractor with one of his grandsons. (The Hoffa Family)
Their aim is to “preserve a piece of history.” Following the purchase, they delved into learning about the property’s famous former owner.
“We came to appreciate the significance of Jimmy Hoffa and his impact on the labor community of his era. He was a rare individual who made a substantial mark on the world, and we feel a responsibility to preserve this property for the local community. Although not designated as a historical site, the property holds significant historical value, and we see ourselves as its custodians, committed to maintaining it to the best of our abilities,” he explained.
The Hagens have launched a Facebook page, “Hoffa House Renovations,” to document their restoration efforts. The page showcases their progress, including repainting Hoffa’s totem pole, uncovering hidden patios, and restoring wooden picnic tables.
James P. Hoffa reminiscing with Eric Shawn about his boyhood summers spent at the lake. (Fox Nation)
“Given the extensive work needed on the property, we believed it made sense to share our progress with everyone. We’ve received messages from individuals across the country who appreciate seeing the home that meant so much to the Hoffas,” John mentioned.
The Hagens face a significant challenge in restoring the house and grounds, which have fallen into disrepair. However, with John’s 40 years of experience as a builder and carpenter, they are prepared for the task.
“Our plan for the house includes restoring the carriage house to its former glory. The foundation on one side is sinking, so we may need to reconstruct it,” he noted. “There’s a large concrete patio adjacent to the house that was uncovered. The stone barbeque on the patio requires extensive repairs, which I will be handling.”
Jimmy Hoffa built his kitchen. Journalist Jerry Stanecki said Hoffa boasted about it, saying, “What do you think? He did it himself.” (Fox Nation)
“The house will undergo renovations inside and out. The exterior will retain its appearance from 50 years ago, with 8-inch white siding and new windows in their original locations. The interior will be updated to reflect a modern look,” he added.
“The new owners are very capable,” affirmed James Hoffa. “They will do an excellent job.”
The Hagens are also discovering special mementos of the Hoffa family’s time at the house.
A summer day at the lake house as Hoffa’s wife Josephine embraces her husband. (The Hoffa Family)
A faint “JO” outline is visible on the cement stairs leading up from the lake, a tribute to Hoffa’s wife Josephine.
The stone seawall, built by Hoffa and his son James, remains sturdy as ever.
“We did it together,” proudly stated Hoffa’s son James. “I worked alongside him on that. Our hands were raw, but we did it together.”
During our visit to the house, the Hagens had the opportunity to meet Hoffa’s son and grandson, David.
Jimmy Hoffa with his family at his lake house. His son, James P. Hoffa is on the left along with Jimmy’s grandsons David, Geoffrey and family. (The Hoffa Family)
“Hearing the heartwarming stories about Jimmy Hoffa provided us with a unique glimpse into the human side of the Hoffa narrative. Jimmy Hoffa was a devoted family man who cherished his loved ones,” reflected John.
“As I listened to James P. Hoffa, I thought to myself, I hope my kids create wonderful memories like he did when they bring their kids to my house. The strong family bond within the Hoffas is evident,” he added.
The Hoffa family held a deep affection for the house, and it seems that the Hagen family will continue this legacy in honor of the esteemed former owner.
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“Riddle: The Search for James R. Hoffa” airs exclusively on Fox Nation on July 31st, 2025.
Watch all eight episodes of “Riddle: The Search for James R. Hoffa,” now available for streaming on Fox Nation. The final episodes delve into “The Only Way To Stop Him Was To Kill Him,” and “The Hoffa Legacy,” incorporating the story of the lake house.
