Donald Riehl Kauffman, 78, passed away Saturday, September 16, 2023, after a short illness. He was born November 9, 1944, to the late Roy and Pauline Kauffman. He graduated from West Liberty-Salem High School and Lincoln Technical Institute in Automotive Mechanics.
On September 10, 1967, Don married Sharon Baker, in Indianapolis Mennonite Church, and she survives. Also surviving are three sons and their wives; Donny (Annie) Kauffman of Bellefontaine, Jason (Robin) Kauffman of West Liberty, and Aaron (Kelly) Kauffman of Tullahoma, TN; ten grandchildren, Josh (Nicci), Jordan (Cara), Alyssa, Shelbi, Isaac (Stephanie), Nick, Sebastian, Cadence, Lillian, and Juliana; three great-grandchildren, Caroline, Claire, Carter; and a sister, Joan (Andy) Helmuth.
Don was a self-employed mechanic most of his adult life. After retirement he and Sharon enjoyed traveling and visited all the lower 48 states. He was greatly involved with Mennonite Disaster Service serving both locally and to places like Detroit and New Orleans cleaning up and rebuilding after disasters. He had a generous spirit and loved to help those in need both monetarily and by giving of his time and talents. He was a devout Christian and loved telling others about Jesus. He was a long-time member of Oak Grove Mennonite Church, where his services will be conducted.
Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, at Oak Grove Mennonite Church, 1525 Mennonite Church Road in West Liberty, Ohio. Pastor Alex Dye will officiate a memorial service at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 20, at the church with visitation one hour prior to the memorial service. A private inurnment will take place at the family’s convenience.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mennonite Disaster Service or Mennonite Central Committee.
Eichholtz Daring & Sanford Funeral Home, West Liberty, is honored to serve the Kauffman family and encourages anyone to share a fond memory or message of condolence at www.edsfh.com.