James E. Kaufmann, age 77, crossed his last finish line on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026. He medaled in integrity, fortitude and acerbic wit.
Born in Jacksonville, Illinois, on June 25, 1949, Jim lived in Springfield most of his adult life. He was a prominent player in numerous arenas, including the running community and the state-wide political scene.
Fortunate enough to retire early, he spent his 22 years of active retirement as a standardized patient for Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and as a wine expert at Corkscrew Wine Emporium. There, he shared his vast knowledge about wine, as well as some choice bottles, with customers, friends and customers who became friends.
He and his wife, Linda Lenzini, traveled both in the U.S. and abroad, but Jim’s happy place was the home near Washington Park where they lived for 34 years.
He died peacefully at Springfield Memorial Hospital after a brief Illness. His wife and one of his beloved sisters, Patty (Kaufmann) Hamburger , were present to walk him home.
In addition to Linda, Jim is survived by nine siblings and their respective spouses: Margaret (Peg) Coon; Kathy Kording; Theresa Luber; Patty Hamburger; Frank Kaufmann; Tom Kaufmann; Ann Mullin; Joe Kaufmann: and Amy Kaufmann. He is also survived by over 90 nieces, nephews, great nieces and great-nephews; he and Linda’s bonus daughter, Claire Nachtwey; and his two beloved dogs, Luna and Bella.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Morris Kaufmann and Charlene Kaufmann; his brother Charlie; his sister Karen: nephews Brian, Jordan and Philip; and great-niece Erin. Deceased dogs Pepper, Delilah, Jezebel, Ethan, Izzy, Spencer and Allen and Oliver the cat will also be greeting him at the Rainbow Bridge. Additionally, he leaves extended family members in both the Kaufmann and Lenzini camps with fond memories.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a future time.
Donations may be made to Central Illinois Food Bank, the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln, the Helping Paw Project, and W.I.L.D. Canine Rescue.
