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Preserve forever →David Alan Kauffman
July 27, 1950— March 8, 2026
St. Thomas, PA
David Alan Kauffman, 75, of St. Thomas, Pennsylvania, passed away on March 8, 2026 at the Chambersburg Hospital. Born July 27,1950 in Chambersburg he was the son of the late Jack and Arlene (Updegrave) Kauffman. He spent much of his life in the community he loved.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Fanny (Gipe) Kauffman; his daughter, Laura (Eric) Reed; his sister, Susan (Ed) Nieradko; his brother, Jack Kauffman Jr.; his grandchildren, Caitlyn (Nathan) Heckman, Marlee (Tucker) Ricker, and Bryce Reed; and his great-grandson, Nash Heckman, who brought him immense joy and was truly the sunshine during some of his darkest days.
David proudly served his country in the United States Navy for four years, stationed in Key West, Fla. Following his military service, he built a long and respected career as a civil engineer at Letterkenny Army Depot, where he dedicated 25 years of service. During this time, he met the love of his life, Fanny, who he proposed to just after just two weeks of knowing her, a testament to his bold and heartfelt nature.
Outside of work, David had many interests and hobbies that kept life interesting. He enjoyed extensive traveling, visiting every state except Oregon, as well as Europe, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Hawaii, and loved cruising. He also enjoyed taking a memorable two-week Midwest road-trip with his grandson Bryce. He also enjoyed collecting the newest and latest fads of each year. In his younger years, he spent time building doll houses with careful craftsmanship.
One of his most cherished roles was “Pappy Can Fix It.” There was not a single thing he couldn’t put back together or repair, and everyone knew they could count on him to make it right.
One of his favorite pastimes was visiting pawn shops with his best friend Herb, always on the lookout for tools or some unique treasure. He also enjoyed breakfast gatherings with his cousin Craig and a group of friends where conversation and laughter were always plentiful.
David loved trains and was a lifetime fan of the Seattle Seahawks, which he proudly got to watch win another Super Bowl. He never met a stranger and he loved to talk, often striking up conversations with just about anyone he met, who would probably be invited to dinner at his house the following week.
David also appreciated the simple, quiet moments in life. He enjoyed sitting with a cup of coffee on his back patio while spending time with his cats, a routine that brought him comfort and peace and evening sitting watching shows and eating dinner with his wife.
Of all the things David enjoyed spending time with his wife, daughter, grandchildren, and family. Making memories with them was what meant the most to him. His great-grandson, Nash, brought him tremendous happiness.
David will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, his curiosity for life, his incredible ability to fix and create, and the many memories he made with those around him.
David’s life was defined by love, generosity, and a boundless curiosity for the world around him. He had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcome, every moment memorable, and every challenge solvable.
His laughter, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends leave a legacy that will continue to inspire and bring joy to all who knew him. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared will remain in the hearts of his family and friends forever.
A celebration of life will be held on April 12,2026 from 3:00pm-6:00pm at the Salem United Brethren Church, 4349 Letterkenny Road Chambersburg PA 17202.
Arrangements are entrusted to SimpleChoice Cremation Services Inc. of Chambersburg. Online condolences may be expressed at: www.simple-choicecremation.com.
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