Melvin R. Kaufman

Melvin R. Kaufman, 88, of Goshen, passed away early Monday morning, January 27, 2014, at Greencroft Healthcare. He had been ill since November. He was born November 25, 1925 near Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to Calvin and Margaret (Shetler) Kaufman. On April 9, 1950 he married Lois Marie Whitehead at the Rock Run Church of the Brethren, Goshen. She survives along with three children, Charles Kaufman of Tucson, Arizona, Gail (Kevin) Brumbaugh of Wakarusa and Donald (Kristine) Kaufman of Chagrin Falls, Ohio; five grandchildren, Chris (Stacey) Harris, David Harris, Allie (Daniel) Chatham, Bryn Kaufman and Colton Kaufman; five great-grandchildren, Alexis, Coy, Thomas and Scot Harris and Luke Chatham; and four siblings, Lorene Saylor and Rhonda (Melvin) Blough, both of Hollsopple, Pennsylvania, Marvin (Ruth) Kaufman of Broadway, Virginia, and Gerald "Jerry" (Marlene) Kaufman of Akron, Pennsylvania. He was preceded in death by his parents. A Goshen resident since 1949, Mr. Kaufman graduated in 1943 from Connemaugh Township High School, Hollsopple, Pennsylvania. He did Civilian Public Service from 1943-45 in Baltimore, Maryland. He was an active member of North Goshen Mennonite Church, where he was involved in building projects and many other activities over the years. A skilled carpenter and craftsman, Mel retired from Smoker-Craft in 1992. His hobby of woodworking brought him and the recipients of his handiwork a lot of pleasure. Travel was also an enjoyable part of his life, having traveled to 48 states and international destinations. Friends may call 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, January 31, 2014, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home where a 10:30 a.m., Saturday, February 1, 2014, funeral service will be conducted. Pastor Mark Schloneger of North Goshen Mennonite Church will officiate. Cremation will follow the service and burial will be at a later date at Violett Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to North Goshen Mennonite Church or Mennonite Central Committee.