Elaine Bunny Kaufman
December 7, 1940 - February 8, 2020
Family and friends are saddened by the unexpected death of this quiet activist whose passion about justice and fairness made a difference in our lives and in the world. We were continuously awed by Bunny's incredible resilience–both physical and emotional. She generously supported Volunteers of America, Art Access, National Council of Jewish Women, Planned Parenthood, the Democratic Party, and the American Civil Liberties Union. In Bunny’s honor, we ask you to support organizations that address issues that you feel passionately about.
Bunny’s signature smile and turquoise jewelry were evident. Those lucky enough to know her witnessed her love of the written and spoken word. Her favorite job—helping readers find just the right book—at King’s English Bookshop fed her soul and intellect. A voracious reader, Bunny was an valuable addition to Daria Book Club’s sophisticated intellectual format and well-read members.
Bunny was proud of her work as Vice President of Development for Planned Parenthood of Utah. Every day she could see the difference donations made in clients’ lives. She spoke often about the rewards of volunteering for Seattle’s Volunteers of America, transporting homeless teens to a warm safe place for the night. In Salt Lake City, her commitment continued as a member of their Board of Directors. In addition, she was soulful artist who was inspired by the west and her vision of the rocks she collected. It was her own expression of the spirituality of nature.
Most important to Bunny was her role as a loving mother and grandmother to her children, grandchildren, and even her grand dogs. A lifelong cheerleader, she delighted in the successes and interesting lives of her daughter, Sandi (Dave) Raines and their son Matthew; son Keith Kaufman (Hollie Pham) and their daughter Sephira; her sister Adriann (Ivan) Braiker and their children and grandchildren.
We will miss Bunny’s depth, love and loyalty, wry sense of humor, her opinions on life and her “Bunny” laugh. We all benefited by being friends and family of this worldly, cool, brilliant and interesting person. Friends are invited to celebrate Bunny’s life on Wednesday, February 12th from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Share your photos and memories and view tribute slideshow at www.starksfuneral.com
In Loving Memory
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Bunny. I have such warm and wonderful memories of her, and the whole family, from years growing up in Salt Lake. She left a lasting impression on all who met her and will be missed by so many. Truly, Aileen McGrath
Dear Sandi and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I'm so very saddened by this news and the void that is left in this world. Bunny was hands down my favorite boss ever. Thankfully we went to dinner in August, and I thought for sure I'd have many more chances to see her. Bunny was so full of life and seemed to be thoroughly enjoying retirement - keeping busy with friends, art, reading, and doing her best to ignore our current state of affairs. I still can't believe this and am so heartbroken I won't get to see her again.
So sorry to hear of Bunny's passing. She was always kind and generous and smart as hell. A true trailblazer with a sweet disposition. She will be missed. Wishing her family comfort...
So sad to hear about Bunny passing on-our world is so much sadder without you. You made the world a better place RIP BUNS
I've picked up the phone so many times to ask about a book, to seek her wise advice, to just catch up. I loved to make her laugh so I could hear that "Bunny" laugh. The world is a sadder place for me without her. All my love to her family.
Bunny was an amazing friend to my sister, Tika Beard, so she became a friend to me. I felt Bunny was a real part of my life because of the generosity of her spirit and the way she shared. Of course she will be missed..and remembered.
Dear Sandi and keith, I am so sorry to hear this news. I’m sending you both a big hug and warm wishes during this sad time. I remember Bunny as being the ‘cool mom’. I’m sure she will be missed. Please take care! Much much from NYC. Peter Yanowitz
I am so sad to hear about the passing of Bunny. My name is Kathy Bray and I'm the President & CEO of Volunteers of America, Utah. I have been with VOA for 20 years so I was here when Bunny was a board member of our organization and Jeff St. Romain was our CEO. Bunny was instrumental in bringing homeless youth services in Salt Lake County under the umbrella of VOA. We continue to serve this vulnerable population today. I always found Bunny to be encouraging, fun-loving and seriously committed to quality services that made a difference in people's lives. She was a difference maker. Peace be with you all. - Kathy
In Loving Memory
