John G. Kaufman Memorial Fund
John G. Kaufman Memorial Fund
Louise Hermsen and Aaron Kaufman are organizing this fundraiser
Created August 30th, 2021
Hello dear family and friends,
John was diagnosed with brain cancer in January of 2018 and his first Facebook post read “ I’m up for the challenge as I always am, just a change in direction for serving the One God, creator of the universe, who makes all things possible through those who believe and seek to glorify him!” That is how he lived each day since then. He was up for the challenge and just kept living a very full life, appreciating each day and glorifying God. He focused on what he COULD DO and continually inspired those around him.
He lived a life focused on helping others. Family always came first. He did so much for so many. For years, when we sat down at the dinner table each evening, we would ask each other the question, “Who did you make smile today?” John made many smile throughout his journey in recent years especially. His message to each of us is to make each day count, be helpful, make a difference and above all, make someone smile.
The list of “thank you’s” we extend is endless. Thank you to family, friends, our kind and talented doctors and their teams, the support services at ProHealth Care Cancer Center, the caring staff at AngelsGrace Hospice and all those who kept us smiling along the way. This GoFundMe is our way of giving back to those who have supported us throughout the journey and to light up smiles by continuing to assist others.
We would like to make a few donations in John’s memory and welcome your contributions. All donations to this fund will be made to John’s four cherished organizations.
Milwaukee School of Engineering
John launched into a career he truly enjoyed through the generosity of others that helped support his education there and we continue to make that possible for others.
No Regrets Men’s Ministry
John’s favorite and most inspiring weekend of the year was the No Regrets Men’s Ministry Conference in the cold of winter. He volunteered, brought family and friends and glowed in the aftermath, playing music and listening to programming for months after, glorifying God.
The Pro Health Care Cancer Center
We had the best of teams to care for us and guide us along our way. The uplifting and kind attitudes of all were a constant source of encouragement and support and we know John’s spunkiness made them smile too. We send our hugs to them.
AngelsGrace Hospice
Our home for nine weeks is filled with the most caring staff and amazing fleet of volunteers who provide the comfort needed to make it through peacefully and with great thanks. The restful grounds provide much needed escape into the solace of nature. It’s a door to paradise.
The picture we chose to symbolize this memorial fund was taken on a family trip to Guanaja, Honduras where the family learned to scuba dive in pristine waters. John’s joy for life and appreciation of God’s love and his glorious world is clear. John continues to make others smile.