Kauffman, Caroline Graber (1886-1966)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1966 Sep 15 p. 8

Birth date: 1886 Nov 2

text of obituary:

CAROLINE KAUFFMAN

Caroline Graber Kauffman, daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Gering Graber, was born on the family homestead near Freeman, Hutchinson County, S. D. on Nov. 2, 1886, and departed this life at Freeman Community Hospital on Aug. 8, 1966, attaining an age of 79 years, nine months and eight days.

Her childhood and early years were spent on the farm of her parents south of Freeman. She attended the rural schools of Hutchinson County and Freeman Junior College.

In her teenage years she was baptized by Elder Joseph Kaufman, whereupon she became a faithful member of the Mennonite Church, her last membership being with the Bethany Mennonite Church at Freeman.

On June 26, 1907, she was married to Dr. E. J. Kauffman of Marion, S. D., where they established their home until her moving to Freeman 13 years ago. Dr. Kauffman died May 1, 1944. Theirs was a childless marriage but their love for children found expression in the adoption of Esther, who preceded her in death.

She is survived by one brother, Jacob P. Graber of Freeman; two sisters, Anna Goering of Moundridge, Kan., and Betty Klaudt of Pasadena, Calif.; and two grandchildren, Leland Glanzer and Janice Glanzer Stetsky of California. Preceding her in death were three brothers, Joseph P. Graber, Jonathan P. Graber and Dr. Ben P. Graber, and one sister, Frances Graber.

Mrs. Kauffman experiences much sickness and pain, and she was forced to submit to several major surgeries from which she made remarkable recoveries. In all of this she showed wonderful patience and courage. She was a devout Christian and a tireless church worker. She loved the beautiful in life, in nature and in language. During the lonely years after her husband's death she found comfort in writing poetry.

Funeral services were held Aug. 10, 1966 at the Bethany Mennonite Church in Freeman with her pastor, Rev. Wm. G. Unruh in charge.