Thomas J. Kaufman

PORTAGE  --  Thomas J. Kaufman, age 68, of Pacific Township, passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 2014 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison.

Tom was born on June 2, 1946 in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, the son of George and Irene (Lynch) Kaufman. He was married to Colleen Mohr on June 3, 1972.  Tom taught in the Portage Public Schools for 37 years; 17 of which he was the Elementary Reading Specialist.  He was a devoted educator and enjoyed substitute teaching in his retirement.  Tom was an avid reader, and loved playing and watching athletics.  He took great pride in his family and being involved in their lives. 

He is survived by his wife, Colleen;  his children, Erin Kaufman, Seattle, WA, Kyle Kaufman, Mondovi, WI, Ross Kaufman, Portage and Ryan Kaufman, Minnetonka, MN;  his sisters and brother, Patricia (Chuck) Holst, Manitowoc, Nancy (Robert) Gamble, Sturgeon Bay, John Kaufman, abroad, and Mary Kaufman, Manitowoc;  other relatives and many friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents. 

Memorial services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 16, 2014 at Portage United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Tom Countryman officiating.  Inurnment will be private.  Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. on Sunday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials will be used for youth reading programs.

The Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage is assisting the family.