Gerald R. Kaufman

Gerald R. Kaufman, 75, passed away on June 3, 2012 in Virginia Beach, VA. Born on June 27, 1936 to the late Ruben and Esther Kaufman in Bridgeport, CT. Jerry, as he was known to most, or “Blackie,” as he was known by a handful of adoring family members and close friends, is predeceased by his eldest son, Bob Kaufman, and brother, Alan Kaufman. Jerry proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1954-74 as a torpedo man, serving on the USS Seaowl (SS 405), USS Sablefish (SS 303), USS Salmon (SSR 573), USS Seawolf (SS(N)575), USS Sailfish (SS 572), and eventually as the Senior Chief on the USS Robert E. Lee (SSBN 601) nuclear submarine (blue crew), holding the title of COB (“Chief of the Boat”). He later retired from Preston Trucking Company as a regional Truck Driver following 26 years of dedicated and accident-free service, and was a proud member of the Teamsters. In his youth, Jerry enjoyed riding motorcycles and exploring flea-markets, describing even his most worthless finds as “treasure.” And throughout his life he always had an incredibly soft spot in his heart for dogs and cats – whether his own, someone else’s, or strays – deriving tremendous pleasure from their company and mere sight. Jerry was also an excellent friend and neighbor who gave generously to those in need, and effortlessly entertained people with his wit, sharp mind, and sense of humor. He is survived by his beloved wife, Theresa M. Kaufman of Virginia Beach, VA; son, Jay Kaufman of Virginia Beach, VA; daughter, Lisa Dickason and husband Steve Davis of Virginia Beach, VA; brother, Kenneth Kaufman of Bridgeport, CT; and sister, Linda Sherwood of Claremont, CA; three grandchildren, Jessica Dickason of Chesapeake, VA; Robin Sorg, and Joseph Dickason both of Virginia Beach, VA; and one great grandchild, Jaden Williams. A visitation will be held on Friday, June 8, 2012 from 6-8 p.m. at Rosewood Kellum Funeral Home, 601 N. Witchduck Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23462. The Fleet Reserve Association will perform at 6:15 p.m. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 9, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Colonial Grove Memorial Park, 3445 Princess Anne Rd., Virginia Beach, VA, with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate your donation to your favorite charity of choice in honor of Jerry Kaufman. You may pay your condolences at: www.kellumfuneralhome.com