Michael Allan Kauffman

Michael Allan Kauffman, 79, passed away peacefully at his home in Ribera, New Mexico on May 29, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Born January 29, 1946, in Neillsville, Wisconsin, Michael was the eldest of three children. After graduating from Loyal High School in Chili, Wisconsin he served in the U.S. Navy as a radioman stationed aboard the nuclear-powered submarine USS Henry L. Stimson (SSBN-655) for four years. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Economics from Purdue University (1973) before completing a law degree from Loyola University Chicago School of Law (1975).

Michael moved to Clovis, New Mexico in 1977 as an assistant district attorney, then eventually settled in Santa Fe as an assistant attorney general. He built a diverse and accomplished career that reflected many of his interests; whether practicing law as a partner at Montoya, Murphy, Kauffman and Garcia, building a boutique hotel in Costa Rica, building three houses in New Mexico, providing mediation services, or practicing real estate. He advocated for meaningful change in many ways, namely as a board member for El Centro Family Health, working to preserve water rights through his service as mayordomo for his local acequia, and participating in New Mexico Men’s Wellness organization for over thirty years making lasting friendships.

Michael was known for his witty sense of humor, his love of cats, incredible cooking skills, and a lifelong passion for helping others, whether through legal advocacy or simple everyday kindness.

Michael is survived by his wife Mahara Daniel; son, Aaron Kauffman; daughter Kristin Kauffman (Steven Grant); grandchildren Owen Grant and Leo Grant; sisters Jean Ashton (Robert) and Katrina Campbell (Harris); and many loving family and friends. He is preceded in death by his father, Everett Kauffman and mother, Frances Kauffman.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, July 26th at El Dorado Community Church in Santa Fe, New Mexico.