Kaufman, N. R. (1862-1929)

Christlicher Bundesbote obituary: 1929 May 2 p. 7

Birth date: 1862 Jan 6

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1929 Apr 24 p. 2

text of obituary:

Rev. N. R. Kaufman

Brother N. R. Kaufman, son of Joseph Kaufman and Katharine nee Goering, was born January 6, 1862, in Beresofka,Government Wolhenia, Russia. When 15 years old he with his parents came to America and settled in Kansas. Together with his brother Joseph he lived for a while on a farm southwest of Moundridge.

Aril 19, 1878 he was baptized upon his confession of faith in Jesus Christ, by Elder Jacob Stucky and received into the membership of the Hoffnungsdfeld congregation.

January 18, 1883 he entered the holy state of matrimony with Frehnie [sic Freni] Stucky, Elder Jacob Stucky officiating. Under God's gracious leading 10 children were born to them, 5 sons and 5 daughters. One son of 14 and a baby daughter preceded him to the homeland.

His home was established on a farm west of Moundridge and later on near Elyria, where he lived for 11 years. Then he moved to Moundridge and there he made his home till his Lord and Master called him higher.

Brother Kaufman was elected to the ministry by his church May 23, 1895 and June 30 following was ordained to this responsible office. 8 years he faithfully served his congregation in this capacity and then he was called to the Eldership and ordained by Elder J. J. Flickinger in 1908. As Elder he served his church about 15 years.

In 1916 a union between the congregations Hoffnungsfeld and Hoffnungsfeld-Eden was advocated. There were difficulties in the way and so Brother Kaufman decided to discontinue his services in connection with his congregation for the time being hoping that this would facilitate the contemplated union. The Garden Township congregation extended a call to him to serve them as Elder and leader This took place April 17, 1917 and Brother Kaufman decided to accept this call. For 5 years he faithfully serve this congregation under God's visible blessing.

Always he manifested great interest in the welfare of his denomination and the Kingdom of God in general. Many years he was active in the Western District Conference. Six years he was a member of the Council of Church Affairs in this conference.

About 7 weeks ago a dread disease made its appearance. Despite loving and faithful care and nursing the disease ran its course and March 30, Saturday morning at 9:10 his Lord and Master called him home. At evening time it shall be light and so it was with Brother Kaufman.

His life he brought to 67 years, 2 months and 24 days. He leaves to mourn his departure his beloved and now bereaved wife, 8 children, 33 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Six grandchildren preceeded [sic] him to the homeland. All his brothers and sisters also awaited his coming to his Heavenly home. — Moundridge Journal.