Betty B Kauffman

Born in Hastings on July 9, 1935, she was the daughter of Linzey and Opal (Heaven) Leazenby and grew up on the family farm in Clarksville. She graduated in 1953 from Saranac High School where she met the love of her life, Roger. They were married after graduation and started a family soon after. Roger and Betty lived in several small homes before settling their own farm on Campbell Road. Farm life suited Betty well, and she grew a flower and vegetable garden that was the envy of the county. 

Along with gardening, Betty’s favorite hobbies also included collecting recipes, cooking, playing cards and finding yard sale bargains. She was known by many names including Grandma Florida, Skip Bo Queen, and “penny pincher”. Her negotiating skills were top notch as she was well known for offering a nickel for something priced at 10 cents. 

After raising their family, Roger and Betty moved to Bradenton, Florida where they resided for over 33 years. Betty enjoyed the change of scenery and learning how to grow tropical plants. The warm weather year around also allowed her to double down on yard sales and she expanded her Christmas decorations to include villages and spent weeks hanging hundreds of outdoor lights for the holidays. It was also in Florida that Betty began adopting miniature Pinscher dogs, including Bruiser, Minnie, and Pinnie who was with her until the end.

Betty sowed many seeds that flourished into wonderful, loving people. She is survived by four children; Dennis (Karen) Kauffman, David (Melanie) Kauffman, Darlene Kauffman, and Deb Kauffman (Matt Buche); 15 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind two sisters, Phyllis Lindhaut and Joy Boger. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 62 years, Roger; her oldest son, Dan and her oldest daughter, Diane; grandchildren Derek and Tadum;  brother, Wayne; step-brother, Tom and step-sister, Wanita.

Family and friends will gather at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 6 for a graveside service at Woodland Cemetery, officiated by nephew and pastor, Bob Hudberg. The family welcomes extended family and friends to a backyard garden open house to visit and reminisce from 1 to 3 p.m. at Betty’s home 918 Sixth Avenue in Lake Odessa. 

In lieu of sending flowers, please plant something beautiful outdoors in her honor.