Charles A. Kaufmann, 87, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at the stroke of midnight on June 1, 2025.   The date and time were particularly poignant, marking the 62nd anniversary of his wedding to his beloved wife, Joan.

A proud son of Erie, Pennsylvania, Charles joined the U.S. Air Force in 1956, based in Europe for much of his service.   While there, he became an air traffic controller, serving until his honorable discharge in 1960.

Upon returning to the United States, Charles joined the Federal Aviation Administration, working for the agency for more than 45 years.   He loved his work and served as a mentor and inspiration to many of his colleagues.

Meeting Joan in 1962 changed everything for Charles. They married in 1963 and created a family that would become the center of his universe. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Charles consistently demonstrated the attributes that became touchstones for the Kaufmann family. Generosity. Kindness. Integrity. Unconditional love.  There was nothing in the world that meant more to Charles than seeing his family thrive.

Charles is survived by his wife, Joan (nee Vella); his daughter, Denise Kaufmann; his sons, Brian Kaufmann (Annie) and Kevin Kaufmann (Bethany); and his grandchildren, Ari and Lucy Kaufmann.

He is preceded in death by his father, Emil Kaufmann; his mother, Theresa Kaufmann (née McNamara); and his brother, Richard Kaufmann.

The family would also like to thank the ICU Nursing staff at Elyria Medical Center and the team at Fresenius Kidney Care for the compassion and kindness shown to Charles.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 5, 2025 from 4-7 p.m. at the Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Services 38475 Chestnut Ridge Road (at State Route 57) Elyria. Funeral service will be held Friday, June 6, 2025 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Reverend Father Frank P. Kosem, pastor will officiate. Burial will immediately follow at St. Mary Cemetery in Elyria where full military honors will be rendered.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.laubenthalmercado.com. Arrangements entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria.