Willa “Jo” Kauffman

July 27, 1929 – November 24, 2023

Willa “Jo” Kauffman, 94, was born on July 27th, 1929 in Dallas, Texas. She passed away Friday, November 24, 2023, after a brief illness at Elkhart General Hospital.

Jo was preceded in death by her mother & father, brother Tom, sisters Anna and Orpha and her niece Delores Dorner.

She is survived by her two sons Kevin Plank of Bristol, IN and Todd Plank of Oldfield, MO. Jo is also survived by her three grandchildren, Brittney Plank, Tyler Plank and Cody Plank and her great-grandson Remington Plank.

Jo’s childhood years were spent living in parts of California and Oregon where she helped her father break broncos and packed mules up in the mountains. After moving to Elkhart, IN she graduated from Elkhart High School on June 4, 1948. Her strongest interests were devoted to family and friends. She continued her love for horses at home and volunteered her time to LoveWay/Middlebury.  Jo loved to be outdoors taking care of her plants and flowers and doting over her great-grandson Remington. She was loved by everyone who met her and had a ‘listening ear’ that would draw you in and confess it all, (that was her ‘Super-Power’). She will be truly missed for her selfless devotion to others, her humility, compassion and undying perseverance to keep going.

Jo’s wishes were to be cremated. There will be no funeral services or visitation, however, the family will hold a ‘Celebration-of-Life’ for Jo in the spring of 2024. (Date and time will be determined and published prior to the eve).  Donations can be made in her name to LoveWay, 54151 CR 33, Middlebury, IN  46540

Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home has been entrusted with her care.