Richard "Dean" Kauffman

Richard Dean Kauffman, 91, of Goshen died Monday, July 15, 2024 at Waterford Crossing Health Campus.

He was born September 19, 1932 in Topeka to Elmer N. and Ella Irene (Yoder) Kauffman. He was raised on their farm in Topeka with his six siblings and graduated from Topeka High School. After high school, he was recruited into the Navy by his brother Elmer.

He spent his working life driving tanker tractor trailers in and out of Chicago, while living in Portage. He was a proud union member of the Local #705, #710, and #364.

After retirement, he moved to Elkhart in 2003 and took a job transporting RVs for Horizon Transport. He enjoyed being on the road and setting his own schedule. He was a devoted Christian and an active member at First Baptist Church of Elkhart. He enjoyed being a greeter and a friend to all who walked through its doors.

Dean was a lover of music, playing the guitar and harmonica. He was an avid reader, which was encouraged in his family from a young age.

Dean is survived by his two sisters, ClaraMae (Don) Gingerich of Kouts and J. Arlene (Dennis) Schrock of Florida; a brother, Kenneth D. (Carole) Kauffman of Marion; his beloved daughters, Jennifer (Jeff) Longenbaugh of Middlebury, and Cynthia Kauffman, of Chandler, Arizona; granddaughter, Lena (Brent) Richards, and great grandson Jackson Dean, and many nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Elmer Kauffman, and sisters, Elizabeth “Betty” Stutzman and Thelma L. Kauffman.

An 11 a.m. graveside memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, July 20 at Maple Grove Cemetery, Topeka.

Memorial gifts may be directed to ABWE, Association of Baptists for World Evangelism, Inc., designated for Catherine M. Butler (0130371) support; https://give.abwe.org/workers/catherine-m-butler .

Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting with the family with arrangements.