Delores Ann Kaufman

Delores Ann Kaufman, age 93, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026.

Delores was born on January 21, 1933, in Mankato, Minnesota, to Harold Polchow and Marcella Landkamer. She grew up in Mankato and graduated from Good Counsel High School. Following graduation, she attended the Good Counsel School of Nursing for one year, beginning a career dedicated to caring for others.

She married John Kaufman on May 2, 1953, and together they shared a lifetime of love and partnership. A lifelong member of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Mankato, Delores's faith was an important part of her life and guided her throughout the years.

Delores worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse for 15 years before retiring from nursing in 1966. After her retirement, she pursued her passion for creativity and entrepreneurship by opening Family Affair ceramics shop with family. Together they co-owned and operated the business for 15 years. Even after leaving the shop, Delores continued sharing her love of ceramics by teaching classes in her basement, inspiring countless students and friends with her creativity.

Family was Delores's greatest joy throughout her life. She also loved traveling with her husband, creating cherished memories on their adventures together. Another passion she enjoyed was collecting porcelain dolls.

Above all, Delores will be remembered for her kind heart, creative spirit, strong faith, and the love she shared with her family and friends. Her warmth, generosity, and gentle presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Delores is survived by her sons, Michael (Julie) Kaufman, Mark (Peggy) Kaufman, and Chris (Cindy) Kaufman; grandchildren, Ryan Kaufman, Melanie Bryant, John Kaufman, Sarah Kaufman, Jason Kaufman, Erin Bickett, Katie Westberg, and Jacob Kaufman; 12 great-grandchildren; sisters, Jean May and Beverly (Frank) Boys; brother Maynard Polchow; and sister-in-law Pam Polchow.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Kaufman; parents Harold and Marcella Polchow; brother, Thomas Polchow; brother-in-law, Wayne May; and sister-in-law, Mercedes Polchow.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Moments Hospice in her memory.

A Memorial Mass will be held at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Mankato on June 15, 2026 at 1:00pm with a visitation an hour prior. A luncheon will be held at the church immediately following mass.