Robert David Kauffman

Robert (Bob) David Kauffman, age 81, died peacefully on Monday, November 7, 2011,at the Lutheran Home of Winston-Salem. He was born on December 9, 1929 in Pittsburgh,PA,to the late Irvin Hartman and Carolyn Grace Robison Kauffman. When he was a young child, Mr. Kauffman's family moved to Severna Park, MD, where he spent his childhood swimming in and sailing on the Severn River, ice skating on the frozen ponds, and creating mischief with his older twin brothers and many childhood friends. After graduation from high school, Mr. Kauffman attended the University of Alabama, graduating in 1955 with a Bachelor of Science degree, followed by graduate classes in metallurgy, also at the University of Alabama. On August 29, 1953, he married Janet Holmes of Round Bay, MD, and together they raised their three children. His work as a metallurgical engineer took his family from Lakeland, FL to Asheville, NC before he retired in Winston-Salem, NC. With his growing family, Bob was a devoted, involved father who was always ready to play a game, go for a swim, a hike or to build something together. Weekends were often spent camping in the woods, climbing a mountain, sailing on a local lake or tubing down a river. Spending time with his family was what he loved best in life. As his grandchildren were born, Bob moved easily and happily into his new role as grandfather. Whether hammering on a new building project, giving a ""horsyback"" ride, or simply reading a story together, his grandchildren always brought a smile to his face. An avid exercise fan, Bob would often be seen energetically walking his dog, Ripple, along the Winston-Salem sidewalks. He often encouraged his children and grandchildren to play sports and stay active. He touched the lives of those around him with his trademark sense of humor and smile. Bob is survived by his former wife, Janet Bland, of Asheville, NC, his daughter, Barbara Page and her former spouse, Stephen Page, of Winston-Salem, NC, his daughter and son-in-law, Kimberly and Charles Miller of Boone, NC, grandchildren Berkeley Kauffman of New Orleans, LA, Rebecca Kauffman of San Francisco, CA, Thomas and Richard Page of Winston-Salem, NC, Emily and Evan Miller of Boone, NC, his brother, Thomas Kauffman and wife Ruth, of Annapolis, MD, and a nephew. He was preceded in death by his son, Randy Kauffman, and brother, Frank Kauffman. Funeral arrangements were made by Hayworth-Miller Funeral Home. The family will hold a private gathering in Asheville, NC, to celebrate his life, reminisce, support each other and, of course, tell a good joke. Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com.