James (Mack) Kauffman Obituary

James P. Kauffman, 90, of Eau Claire, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 6, 2024 surrounded by his daughters.

He was born in Eau Claire to Cecil Joseph (CJ) and Ida Mae (Sears) Kauffman. He was a proud member of the first graduating class of Regis High School and excelled on the basketball court. Jim was named to the All-Tournament team as part of the 1952 Catholic School State Basketball Championship team.

After two years of service in the U.S Army, he graduated from Eau Claire Vocational School in business and worked at various accounting and tax positions. He retired as Vice President, Branch Manager, and Chairman of the Board of Citizens State Bank of Cadott. He loved golfing, watching (and complaining about) the Packers, Brewers, and Badgers, and surrounding himself with people, making friends wherever he went. He was famously described as "a party waiting to happen." Jim married Priscilla Hickox on January 24, 1959, and together they shared 59 wonderful years.

He is survived by his daughters, Beth (Geoffrey) Bright, Lynn (Robert) Poirier, Brenda (Brian) Goettl; grandchildren, Allison (Michael) Bright and Gregory (Kathleen) Bright, Megan (Joey) Ross and Erin (Jeremy) Dixon, Bradley (Ray) Goettl-Ng, and Torrey (Doeneah) Goettl; and great granddaughters Amelia and Daphne. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, many family members, and friends - including the Wednesday night golf crew.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, beloved wife, and his brothers Donn, William and John Kauffman and his sister Patricia Boyd.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, December 16, 2024 at St. Olaf Catholic Church, 3220 Monroe St, Eau Claire, with Father James Kurzinski officiating. Family and friends may call two hours prior to services beginning at 9:00 am. A luncheon will follow at the church.

The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at the Heritage Assisted Living, River Pines Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, and St. Croix Hospice for their kindness and compassion. For online condolences, visit www.lenmarkfh.com.

Memorial donations will be directed to Hope Gospel Mission of Eau Claire and Regis High School.