Nicolas John Kaufman

Nicolas John Kaufman of Newton Massachusetts died at home on May 12, 2022 of complications related to a stroke he suffered seven years prior. Nick was born to Dr. Aaron and Edith Kaufman on January 5, 1944 in Natick Massachusetts. He attended Cambridge School of Weston and Antioch College where he studied theater, and history. He kept in touch with friends from both schools throughout his life, hosting reunions at his home in Newton.

Nick was an award-winning documentary filmmaker, starting his own company Nick Kaufman Productions which became a second family to him. NKP Media made health and safety films for unions, educational films for universities and fundraisers for non-profits among many others. Nick was a lifelong reader and writer, never without a book at his side. He wrote and published an autobiographical novel, Where the Light Enters based on his time as an exchange student in Norway.

Nick’s greatest achievement was the family he created with Peggy, his wife of 49 years. He was the most devoted and adoring father to his two children, Noah and Sashi. He was a front row supporter at every lacrosse game or choir concert. Nick, Peggy, Noah and Sashi traveled widely together, hiking and camping throughout the country and abroad. Nick was happiest on the trail with a map and a field guide to flowers in his hand, along with a hearty snack and several layers in his backpack.

Nick loved to be silly and laughed longest, often at his own jokes. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him including his brother Peter Kaufman, son-in-law Lance Gray, daughter-in-law Alison Kaufman and grandchildren, Eliana, Nathan, Avi, Eli, and Maya. One of Nick’s mottos came from E.M. Forster who wrote, “Only connect.” And so he did with many extended family and friends too numerous to mention here. He loved deeply and widely and loyally. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Trustees of the Reservation where he loved to hike and relish the delights of the natural world.