Ivan James Kaufman

SAYBROOK - Ivan James Kaufman, beloved husband, father, grandpa, son, and brother; Ivan passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on December 24, 2023, following a brave battle with cancer. He was 63 years old.

He is preceded in death by his father: James (Jim) Kaufman; and 2 miniature pinchers: Darby and Henata that he loved so dearly.

He is survived by his beautiful wife: Jeri-Jo Kaufman. Ivan and Jeri-Jo met at Holiday Park Pool as teenagers and fell in love. They married on March 15, 1980. His desires in life were to have a loving wife, beautiful children, and place to call home. Jeri-Jo was his heart. Everything he did in life was to make her happy.

He was a loving father to 4 children: Philip Kaufman, Amanda (Josh) Clifton, Brooke (Dennis) Garrison, and Shane (Sarah) Kaufman.

He was a proud grandpa to 4 grandchildren: Rydan, Rowan, Rayne, and Riley.

Ivan is further survived by his mother: Della Kaufman; and brothers: Keith Kaufman and Robert (Joan) Kaufman.

Ivan was a bright light in this world. His put his family above everything and he loved them fiercely. Although he was a man of few words, a look, a laugh, or a bear hug let you know what he was thinking. He was an avid gamer, spending many hours playing with his eldest son. Ivan was a proud father but an even prouder grandpa. Even on the days when treatment left him tired and not feeling well, he would scoop up his grandbabies and give them all the love he had. His impact on our lives was great and words cannot describe the loss we feel. He gave a lifetime of love and memories and we will carry those memories throughout our life in hopes of putting a little bit of light back into the world.

A public visitation will take place at East Lawn Funeral Home on January 3, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 pm.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Barnes-Jewish Hospital Siteman Cancer Center Fund.

Condolences and memories may be left with the family at eastlawnmemorial.com