Melinda (Punky) Joy Kaufman, 59, passed away on July 9, 2019, in Dayton, Texas. Memorial services will be held this Saturday, July 20, 11:30 a.m., at the Kenefick Civic Center.
Melinda is survived by her children: Amanda Grace (Walters) Smith and Andrew Walters; her mother, Melba Ann Wageman; sisters, Shana Decker and Rene Goe; and a multitude of loving family and friends. She is preceded by her father, Rud Kaufman; stepfather, Robert Lee Wageman; brother, Roger Earl Kaufman; son, Casey Lee Shosky; and aunt, Joyce Warehime.
Melinda was born on March 14,1960, in Seattle, Wa., to Melba Ann Wageman and Rud Kaufman. In her youth, much like her adult years, Melinda loved the outdoors and the adventures she would embark on such as floating down the Green River in Flaming Geyser State Park.
Always the independent soul, Melinda would begin a career with Boeing where she was a part of many military and civilian aircraft construction projects. After her career with Boeing concluded and she became a full time mother, Melinda decided to start her own business in Zillah, Wa., where she would craft and sell fine handmade rustic décor.
She loved her children very much. While Andrew and Amanda were in elementary school, Melinda earned the title of “Jump Rope Lady” as she would spend time at recess ready with games, fun and well jump ropes. She was very fond of gardening, animals and had no small amount of love for “The Boss,” Bruce Springsteen, all of these traits she would pass down to her children.
We are not able to convey with words what kind of wonderful person Melinda truly was, she will be deeply missed by her friends, family and all who knew her.
If desired, friends and family can bring condolences, flowers, potted plants or food to the memorial services at the Kenefick Civic Center this Saturday, July 20, 11:30 a.m.