Joe E. Kauffman 88, of West Liberty slipped away peacefully at home August 14, 2021 surrounded by his loving wife and children whom provided his care.  Joe was born on July 6, 1933 in West Liberty, the son of David M. & Olive B. (Hartzler) Kauffman.  On September 7, 1958 he married Alona M. Yoder and she survives with their four children.

James D. (Lisa) Kauffman, Jeffrey H. (Laura) Kauffman, Annette Kauffman, Dale & Jodi (Kauffman) Motzko.  Surviving grandchildren include Zain Turay, Kimberly Kauffman, David Kauffman, Connor Motzko, Tyler Motzko, Ryan Motzko and Will Motzko; brothers Warren &(Elma) Kauffman, Harold Kauffman, Ken & (Jane) Kauffman; brother-in-law Lowell Detwiler; sister-in-law Irene Kauffman.  He was preceded in death by his brother Dale Kauffman and sister Ruth Detwiler.

After graduating from West Liberty-Salem, he spent two years in I.W. Service at Hawthorne in Cleveland, Ohio.  Once returning home, he worked in construction.  In 1961, Paul Hooley gave him the opportunity to start his own business by building the family home.  When that was completed, Joe was the lead contractor for Oak Hill Medical Associates.  From there he constructed and remodeled various homes and businesses in the area.

Joe was a lifelong member of South Union Mennonite Church where he was a trustee and helped with various projects.

He enjoyed being outside mowing grass, cutting fire wood, and riding through the woods on his four wheeler.  Joe also loved spending time in his shop designing and building various wood pieces.  He was an avid antique John Deere tractor collector.  Many hours were spent restoring and riding the tractors.  Joe treasured his family and grandchildren and loved all the family visits.  In the winter time he would load up his snow mobile and head north to the U.P. of Michigan where his cousin Okie had a cabin.  He would always come home with many stories to tell.

There will be a memorial visitation from 4-7 PM on Friday August 27 ^th at the South Union Mennonite Church located at 56 State Route 508 West Liberty, Ohio 43357.

A memorial service will take place in the Church on SUNDAY August 29 ^th at 2:00 PM

We would like to acknowledge Universal Home Health for their compassionate and tremendous care that Joe received.  Also to Jennings Farley & Seeley Funeral Home for guiding us through this time.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that a memorial contribution be made to South Union Mennonite Church.