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Paula K. Kauffman, 76, of Altoona, passed away Monday at her residence. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Howard P. and Marian J. (Fleck) Kauffman.
Paula devoted her professional life to educating and caring for children. She taught special education in the Bellwood-Antis School District until her retirement in 2007. Although Paula did not have children of her own, she taught, encouraged and helped shape the lives of countless children through her career, her involvement with the youth of Duncansville Evangelical Lutheran Church and her service throughout the community.
Paula was a faithful and dedicated member of Duncansville Evangelical Lutheran Church. Throughout the years, she served the congregation in many leadership and ministry roles. She previously served as Vice President of the Congregation Council and helped lead the congregation for several years. Most recently, she served as Congregational Resource Director and Secretary of the Congregation Council.
Her service extended far beyond the titles she held. Paula was always willing to lend a hand wherever she was needed. She could often be found helping to prepare and serve a meal, singing with the praise team and supporting the church's children and youth. Paula did not simply attend DELC -- she invested herself in its people, its ministries and its future.
Paula also devoted more than 50 years of service to the Order of the Eastern Star. She served as Worthy Grand Matron of the Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Order of the Eastern Star Inc., from 2010-11. She was a current member of Hollidaysburg Chapter No. 471 and continued to serve on various Grand Chapter and regional committees throughout her many years of membership.
She was also actively involved with the Brian Morden Foundation, generously supporting its mission and work within the community.
Paula was preceded in death by her parents.
Although she had no immediate surviving family, she leaves behind a large extended family of friends, former students, colleagues, church members and community partners whose lives were enriched by her compassion, leadership and faithful service.
Paula will be deeply missed by her church family, fellow members of Eastern Star and the many people throughout the community who knew and loved her. Her life was one of service -- to children, to her church, Order of the Eastern Star and to her community. Her influence will continue through the countless lives she touched and the example of faithful service she leaves behind.
Friends will be received from 3:30 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, at Duncansville Evangelical Lutheran Church, where an Eastern Star service will be held prior to the 4:30 p.m. memorial service.
Arrangements are by Sorge Funeral Home & Crematory Inc., Hollidaysburg.
sorgefuneralhome.com