Maxine Kauffman

Eileen Maxine Kauffman of Enterprise, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, in Salina, Kansas, at the age of 94 surrounded by the love of her devoted family. Maxine's long and fulfilled life touched many, and her legacy will live on through those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Born on August 1, 1931, in Carlton, Kansas, to August and Clara Gladys Glahn, Maxine grew up with strong family values and a spirit of loyalty that remained with her throughout her life. She graduated from DCCHS in 1949 and on April 8, 1950 married her partner in life, Dale Kauffman. Together, they nurtured their family and built a legacy on the family farm, where Maxine played a vital role in both its day-to-day operations and its long-term success as she was as comfortable on a tractor as she was at her sewing machine.
Maxine was the proud mother of three children, Linda (Bob) Huseman, Luanne (Al) Wagner, and Lynn (Julie) Kauffman, the loving grandmother of seven, including Jill (Trenton) Jones, Jana Rogers, Michael Porter, Matt (Samantha) Porter, and Russ (Angie) Porter, Jennifer (Steve) Allen and Tyler Kauffman. She was great grandmother of eleven, including Paxton, Caden, Landry, Elli, Carson, Annabelle, Tilley, Madelyn, Courtney, Hudson, Beckett. She was unwavering in her support of her children and grandchildren, never missing a sporting event or school function, and always ready with a warm embrace and a loving smile. She had a special talent for making every family member feel uniquely loved and supported, and her home was always filled with laughter, warmth, and good food. Known fondly as "Gram," Maxine radiated fun and kindness, building memories that her family will carry in their hearts forever.
Maxine was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Dale, and her brother Lyle Glahn and is survived by her sister LaVeta (Dale) Wingerd.
Maxine's heart for service was felt throughout her church and community. She was a dedicated member of New Basel Church, participated in the Navarre EHU, donned fun hats with the Red Hats Society, and gave generously of her time as a volunteer with the Memorial Hospital and Navarre Boosters 4-H Club. Maxine dedicated over 30 years as a school bus driver, safely transporting generations of local children and often cheering them on at countless school events. She also contributed to her community as a Mary Kay Consultant, spreading encouragement, joy, and the simple beauty of self-care to friends and neighbors alike.
Known for her creativity and active spirit, Maxine took great pleasure in sewing quilts and fashions, crafting ceramics, and tending to her meticulously cared for gardens, she could often be found mowing her lawn well into her 90s. She was an avid collector of angels, plates, and thimbles, gathering treasures during her many travels. Maxine also made regular exercise and walking a joyful part of her routine.
Maxine will be remembered for her loyalty and dedication, her laughter and love, and the unwavering support she offered her family and friends. As a tribute to our mother and grandmother, we are committed to carrying on her legacy of commitment to family and community.
Family will receive friends on Tuesday from 5-7 pm at Martin Becker Carlson Funeral Home. A service will be held at the New Basel Church on Wednesday September 3rd at 10:30 am. The family requests memorials to New Basel Church and the Navarre Community Center. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third ST., Abilene, Kansas 67410.
In honoring Maxine's memory, we invite all who knew her to celebrate a life well-lived and to continue her legacy of love, commitment to family, and service to the community.