Edith “Edi” Kaufman, born on July 27, 1928, in Linz, Austria, and a longtime resident of Denver, Colorado, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of August 17, 2024, with her son by her side. She was 96 years old.

Edi was intelligent and talented from a young age. She graduated high school at the age of 16 and had already learned English as a second language. She also had a love for art and music and was known for her beautiful soprano singing voice.

During World War II, Edi worked as a translator for U.S. troops stationed in her hometown of Linz. It was during this time that she met Dick, her future husband, who was serving in the 10th Mountain Division. Their love story began with chance encounters and grew into a strong bond.

After Dick returned to the United States, he and Edi maintained their relationship through letters over the course of 5 years while Edi completed her master’s degree in education at the University of Vienna. Dick returned to Europe in the summer of 1950 on a motorcycle trip with a friend, where he and Edi were married in Salzburg, Austria.

Edi and Dick eventually settled in Colorado, where they built their home on Simms Street. Edi worked diligently to transfer her Austrian education to the U.S. and earned her teaching certificate. She began her career as a substitute teacher and later secured a permanent position at Monroe Elementary in Denver, where she taught for 27 years.

Edi loved traveling, especially to Europe, where her parents remained. She planned many exciting trips for her family, including visits to castles, cruises, and even a journey around the world.

Music and the arts were central to Edi’s life. She was an active member of her church choir and frequently performed solos. She loved playing the zither and singing Austrian folk songs, and she often brought her guitar to gatherings to add music and fun. Edi also enjoyed attending the symphony, opera, and theater.

Edi was a skilled painter and decorated her home with stunning murals and artwork. She also enjoyed sewing, knitting, and, most of all, cooking and baking. Her Austrian apple strudel, Gugelhupf, and many other desserts were beloved by family and friends. Edi was known for hosting wonderful dinner parties filled with delicious food and lively conversation.

Edi was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She brought joy to everyone who knew her and created countless happy memories.

She is survived by her son Richard of Breckenridge, and her granddaughter Maggie with her husband Chris, and their son Odin of Granby.

Edi will be deeply missed, but will remain lovingly remembered by all.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.