Rolf Kaufman

Rolf Kaufman passed away on February 15, 2026, at the age of 95. Born October 18, 1930, in Cologne, Germany to the late Walter and Ellen Kaufman. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife of 58 years, Libby Kaufman.

Rolf's remarkable journey began in Germany, where his Jewish family fled the dangers and loss of their business due to the Holocaust. The Kaufman family sought refuge in Brussels, Belgium, and eventually found safety in Southern France before finally coming to the United States passing the Statue of Liberty and entering through New York Harbor in July of 1946. This pivotal moment set the stage for Rolf to begin a life that would be marked by resilience, hard work, and a deep commitment to his community.

After his graduation as valedictorian from Waynesville Township High School in 1948, Rolf pursued higher education at North Carolina State College in Raleigh, where he earned both Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Chemical Engineering. His educational journey took a significant turn when he became a United States Citizen in 1952 while living in Raleigh. Following his studies, Rolf honorably served in the Army, stationed at the Army Chemical Center in Edgewood, Maryland. It was during this time that he met Libby Topaz, whom he married, and they welcomed their son Stephen into the world in 1958.

After a rough journey through childhood, Rolf embraced the USA and considered Haywood County his true home. In approximately 1956, Rolf and Libby relocated to Waynesville, where he joined the family business, Wellco Shoe. Rolf's dedication and hard work led him to become the president of the company, ensuring its legacy in the community.

Rolf created lasting memories with his family, particularly enjoying boating trips on Fontana Lake and vacations to Hilton Head. Following the passing of his beloved wife Libby in 2004, Rolf cherished the time spent with his grandson, Sam, taking several trips together that provided comfort and joy amidst their shared loss. He enjoyed lots of family trips and many to the beach at Hilton Head.

A lifelong advocate for his community, Rolf was recognized for his significant contributions, receiving the DAR Americanism Medal from the Daughters of the American Revolution in 1991. He actively participated in organizations such as the United Way, Rotary, Salvation Army, Haywood County Hospital, and Haywood Community College. In retirement, Rolf poured his heart into the creation of Folkmoot, USA, which became his prime interest and unpaid job. Though he had no background in folk dance, he felt that this was a wonderful opportunity to bring people from all over the world to Western North Carolina. He felt that the relationships built through Folkmoot helped build the most peaceful interchange among people.

Rolf Kaufman is survived by his son Steve and his wife Karen, his grandson Sam, his step-grandson Tim Reeves and his wife Beth, and his step-great grandchildren Lawson and Zadie Reeves.

Per Rolf’s wishes, no formal services are planned.

The family thanks the wonderful staff at Silver Bluff Village, as well as special friends Donna McCracken and Shirley Garrett for all of their support

In lieu of Flowers, donations may be made to the Haywood Community College Foundation, 185 Freeland Drive, Clyde, NC 28721 or Folkmoot, PO Box 658, Waynesville, NC 28786.

A legacy of kindness, community dedication, and love for his family will continue to inspire those who had the privilege to know him. His contributions to both his family and the Waynesville community will be profoundly missed.

The care of Mr. Kaufman has been entrusted by Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.