Wayne Kaufman

"Wayne” Gordon W. Kaufman Sr., age 84, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2025, at his residence in Rib Mountain, Wisconsin, surrounded by his loving family. Born June 6, 1941, Wayne’s life was defined by unwavering love, enduring strength, and deep-rooted devotion to his family and heritage. His heart, already shattered by the loss of his beloved wife Marjorie on May 17, 2025, is now reunited with her and with the family members who passed before him.

Wayne and Marjorie shared a remarkable bond and lived a life full of adventure and affection. After retiring, they purchased a motorhome and traveled across the country, eventually settling in Parkston, South Dakota, where they made their home for 20 + years. Later, they returned to Wisconsin to live with their son and devoted caregiver, John Kaufman, their caregiver Jamie Cole managed to provide great care to both Wayne and Marge daily.

In their final weeks together, they created lasting memories—including Wayne making many cherished visits to the casino with his grandson Justin Kaufman and granddaughter Katie VanRixel since his return to Wisconsin, what was one of their favorite pastimes they did weekly together

The love between Wayne and Marge was something truly rare — a bond that radiated to everyone around them. Their marriage was not only a partnership but a beautiful friendship full of laughter, adventure, and quiet moments that only they could truly understand.

Together, they found happiness in the simple joys — scenic drives through the countryside, camping under the stars, sharing laughs with friends and family, and their favorite pastime, visiting the casino, where they often shared a lucky streak and a lot of joy.

Wayne was extremely proud of his Native American roots, Wayne loved exploring and sharing stories of his ancestry and family history. We will always remember his warm greeting— “Hey kiddo, how are you?”—welcomed everyone into his circle, and his humor and generosity left an indelible mark on all who knew him, he always asked for a coke by saying “hey kiddo get me a coke, my mouth is dryer than a popcorn fart” 😌

Throughout his career, Wayne held many positions, but the role he most fondly remembered and enjoyed, and talked about regularly was serving as Chief of Police in Southern Wisconsin—a duty he approached with integrity, honor and pride.

Wayne was preceded in death by his loving wife Marge Kaufman, his parents, Roland L. Kaufman and Dorothy F Pophal, whom he adored, his siblings Roland “Denny” Kaufman, Lawrence “Larry” Kaufman, and Sandra “Sandy” Towle, and his son, Roland Kaufman who tragically passed at a young age.

He is survived by his children Kathy Kaufman, John Kaufman, Dorothy(Phil) Gritmacher, Jack Kaufman, Kevin Kaufman, Richard “Lynn” Kaufman, Heather Kaufman, Justin (Samantha) Kaufman, and Gordon W Jr., his stepchildren Connie Tangen, Larry Schutz, and Greg Tangen, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family including 3 sisters in laws, Betty Kaufman, Linda Nelson, and Hazel Luethi, many friends— and his very close friend Pedro, all of whom mourn his passing and celebrate his life.

In his final chapter while living in Rib Mountain, Wayne was especially close to his adored friend Nichole Behrens, who helped care for him until his passing. Their bond—built on love, laughter, and shared stories—brought him great comfort and joy daily as he awaited her regular visits.

Though he faced deep pain in recent weeks due to losing his best friend and beloved wife Marge, Wayne remained a man of compassion and resilience. He strove always to be the best father, grandfather, friend, and steward of his heritage. His legacy of resilience, warmth, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

A funeral service for Wayne and Marjorie will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 12:00 PM Noon at Ascend Funeral Home, 2809 Jelinek Avenue, Weston, WI, 54476, with Pastor Lance Hoelscher presiding. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 12:00 PM Noon. Wayne will be laid to rest at Chat Community Cemetery in the town of Birch.

“Fly high, Dad. Rest easy. We’ll take it from here” you definitely will be missed! 

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ascendweston.org.