Rod Kaufmann

Thank you for coming here to celebrate our dad's life.

Gerard "Rod" Kaufmann of Granby, CT, passed away on June 19, 2024 from cancer at the age of 81. He leaves behind his sister Mary Louise “ML” Kaufmann Hawley (and husband Walter Hawley), two daughters, Sheri Kaufmann Winkler (and husband Adam Winkler) and Kim Kaufmann, two sons by marriage, Andy Newman (and wife Stacy Newman) and Dan Newman (and wife Nicolina Newman), and former wife Cindy Evans Kaufmann. He was grandfather to Max and Gabriel "Gabo" Winkler and Jack, Charlie, Ava, and Henry Newman. He’s also survived by his dogs Widget “Widgie Woo” and Jack, cats Samson and Paulie, and the parakeets that brightened his days with their song.

Years before we lost him, he lost his wife Karen Lenz Newman, his father Gerard Kaufmann Sr., and his mother Olga Heber Kaufmann. He loved and missed them every day.

Rod grew up in White Plains, NY, attended White Plains High School, and followed his heart to Cornell University where he got his degree in veterinary medicine. He owned and served as local vet at Hopmeadow Animal Hospital in Simsbury, CT for 40 years and was known for his lifelong love of animals, caring nature, and understanding of all who know the unconditional love of a pet.

Rod was one of the most generous people you could meet. He would do anything to help a friend in need, and often did. He gave more than he took from this world.

What he loved most of all was sharing time with people he loved, often alongside a great meal. The servers at many restaurants in town knew him well because he enjoyed their conversation and friendship as much as exploring the menu. Special thanks to Meadow restaurant in Simsbury for making him custom soups so he was able to enjoy meals out during his illness. This meant everything to us and him.

The week before Rod passed, he told his daughters he felt very lucky not just to have such a large network of people that loved him, but also to have so many people in his life that he loved so dearly. He could not get to all the texts and visit requests that he received during his illness, but he was so grateful for the outpouring of love and support from friends, family, and neighbors when he needed it most.

Rod was happiest when he made people smile and laugh. The world was brighter with him in it. If we all take a little of his way of life with us, we will keep his light shining.

In lieu of services, please raise a glass with people you love in remembrance of one of the best. His family would love it if you shared your favorite “Rod” story or photo here. Humor is welcome.