J. William Kauffman, Jr.

J. William Kauffman, Jr., 97, of Avon Lake, peacefully passed away Tuesday, June 13, 2023. He was born December 22, 1925, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to parents, J. William and Gertrude Irene (nee Thomas) Kauffman. Bill was raised in Rocky River and graduated from Rocky River High School. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. As part of the GI bill, Bill attended Princeton University where he earned his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and worked at Westinghouse, Luxaire, and Borg Warner before retiring in 1987. He met Jane Wassell at All Two's in Lakewood and they were married June 30, 1950. Bill enjoyed collecting stamps, touring historical sites, fishing, outdoors and attending Avon Lake community and sports events. He was a proud Kiwanis member and served as President in 1989-1990. An active member and Trustee of the Avon Lake United Church of Christ, Bill helped with renovation projects within the church. Bill was the Patriarch of his large, close-knit family and enjoyed attending all of the family activities. Bill is survived by his loving children, Jim Kauffman (Pam), Pete Kauffman (Kathy), Bill Kauffman (the late Sharon Pizzuli), Bruce Kauffman (Jill Wilson), Liza Long (Chris), and Sarah Capezzuto (Matt); cherished grandchildren, Brian Kauffman (Sarah), Eric Kauffman (Polly Mytinger), Todd Kauffman (Kateland Kacic), Jamie Kauffman (Alyssa), Rachel Collett (John), Noah Pensinger, Hannah Gallagher, Jake Kauffman (Sam), Grace Lada (Justin), Kristin Long, Barbara Long (Luke Coty), Emily Lockhart (Taylor), and Sammy Buck (Anthony Colozza); great-grandchildren, Hudson, Axel, Carson, Tidus, Elaina, Emery, Kellen, and two more on the way. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Jane Kauffman; his parents; and his brother, Dave Kauffman. Family will receive friends for visitation Saturday, July 22, 2023, from 3 to 5 p.m. in Busch Funeral Home, 163 Avon Belden Road, Avon Lake, 440-933-3202. Memorial service will be held Sunday, July 23, 2023, at 1 p.m. in the Avon Lake United Church of Christ, 32801 Electric Blvd., Avon Lake. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions suggested to Avon Lake United Church of Christ or the Avon Lake Kiwanis Club. www.buschcares.com