David Steven "Dave" Kaufman

Celebrating the Life of David Steven Kaufman

On July 13, 1951, in Peoria, Illinois, David Steven Kaufman came into the world as the son of Mary Scraper and Claude Kaufman. From the very beginning, he was known for his big personality - a little stubborn at times, but always quick with a smile, a laugh, or a conversation with just about anyone. On September 26, 2025 he left this world doing what he loved - working, laughing, and talking with friends and family.

Dave grew up surrounded by family. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Gene Kaufman and Claudia Kaufman, and is survived by his sister Joyce Kaufman and his brother Jason Scraper.

For his career, Dave worked as a machinist - a skilled hand who kept the machines running that made parts for automobiles, airplanes, and even military vehicles. He worked hard and long hours. He took pride in his work, and in knowing that what he fixed and built mattered.

Outside of work, Dave poured his energy into the things he loved. He was a proud member of the Freemasons, a group where his loyalty and love for community fit right in. Dave entered the Masons as an Apprentice Mason in early 2002 and quickly rose to the rank of Master Mason on May 18, 2002. He was very honored by his Freemason Status and served as Treasurer of the Brookside Lodge for 6 years. He was a longtime bowler at Expo Bowl in Beech Grove, his second home, where he laughed, bowled, and turned league nights into family gatherings. For more than 20 years he was part of the bowling leagues there, where he laughed, competed, and made lifelong friends. Bowling was more than just a game for him; it was community.

Dave is survived by his wife, Teresa Shelton, and his children: Steven Kaufman, Christopher Kaufman, Amberly Manion, and Justin Kaufman. To his grandchildren, he was "Papaw Dave," a softer, gentler side of the man not seen by those whom he raised. He showed them patience, kindness, and a love that will never be forgotten.

Dave had two superpowers in life - he could fix anything and he could befriend anyone! Anyone that knew Dave has now lost their first person to call when they need to make a repair, work on their car, or fix anything.

If you ever had the chance to chat with him - whether you knew him as Pops, Dad, or Papaw Dave - you knew that he never met a stranger. He could talk to anyone, and he usually did. He had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and welcome.

In true Dave fashion, he wanted to be cremated and often joked that his ashes should just be flushed down the toilet. While we won't honor that exact request, we will honor his spirit, his laughter, and the countless memories he left behind.

A celebration of his life will be held on November 29, 2025, from 3–6 p.m. at the Englewood Masonic Lodge 6170 E Southern Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46203 . Family, friends, and anyone who ever shared a laugh, a conversation, or even just a bowling lane with him are invited to gather, remember, and celebrate the life of a man who truly lived on his own terms.

So come as you are-because that's exactly how Dave would've wanted it. If you have a denim shirt, WEAR IT!