Philip G. Kaufman

Philip G. Kaufman, "Phil", age 74, a long-time resident of Wilmington, passed away on July 1, 2022, at the Lahey Hospital in Burlington, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Philip was born on June 28, 1948, in Boston, MA; he was the cherished son of the late Morris and Frances (Marder) Kaufman.  Phil was raised and educated in Mattapan and was a graduate of Boston English High School.

Philip was drafted into the United States Army on May 27, 1969; he served most of his active duty overseas and earned several commendations including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal.  Phil was honorably discharged from active duty in May of 1971 and returned home to his family.  Phil continued to serve the Country with the Army Reserves until May of 1975.

Phil married his "sweetheart" Jean "Gee Gee" Rafferty on June 9, 1984; Phil and Gee Gee moved to Wilmington shortly after their wedding where they raised two wonderful children Ed and Katelyn.  Phil adored his family; for a time he was "Mr. Mom" and treasured every moment he spent with his kids whether it was a sporting event, family vacation or fishing expedition, they always had a great time together.   Phil became "Grampy" to Owen, Amelia and Laura within the last couple of years and he was thrilled; he lit up when those little ones entered the room as they were his pride and joy.  Phil and Gee Gee were so proud of the family they created, they shared many wonderful times with their family and friends throughout the last 38 years and made countless memories to share with generations to come.

Phil worked hard throughout his life; prior to retiring he was employed as a clerk with the United States Post Office in Boston.  Phil's easy going personality and customer service skills made him a "favorite" person with the customers as well as his co-workers.  Phil retired in 2011 following many years of dedicated service to the Post Office.

In his spare time, Phil, enjoyed reading, spending time with family and friends, relaxing by the pool, working in his yard, fishing and food.  He loved a great meal and was always quick to compliment the chef.  In his early years, Phil had a vibrant personality and was very outgoing; he was the "life of the party" and made sure everyone had a great time.  Phil had a very upbeat and positive attitude; he didn't take things too seriously and encouraged others to do the same.  Phil's endearing personality drew people to him, he was fun to be around and loved by all.  Phil will forever be in the hearts of those he touched.

Phil was the beloved husband of Jean "Gee Gee" Kaufman, devoted father of Edward Kaufman & his wife Emily of Nashua, NH, Katelyn Conway & her husband Michael of Wilmington and the late Sarah Jean Kaufman.  Loving "Grampy" of Owen Conway, Amelia Kaufman and Laura Conway, dear brother of Leonard Kaufman & his wife Sharen of Norfolk, MA and the late Ernest Kaufman.  Brother-in-law of Kitty Rafferty of Watertown, Ginny Rafferty of Aiken, SC, and the late Edward Rafferty, Uncle of the late Debbie Kaufman.  Phil is further survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great nephews and many friends.

Family and friends will gather for a Graveside Service with Military Honors on Saturday, July 9th at 10:00 a.m. in Wildwood Cemetery, 233 Middlesex Ave., Wilmington, MA.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Philip's memory to the Sophia Gordon Cancer Center at Lahey Hospital, 41 Mall Road, Burlington, MA  01805.

To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com