Fred Kaufman, founder of Kaufmans Tall & Big Mens Shop, now in its 52nd year, passed away Feb. 8, 2010, at age 79.
Rabbi Steven Foster officiated at the Feb. 12 service at Feldman Chapel. Interment followed at Mt. Nebo Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
Kaufmans Tall & Big Mens Shop, which caters to men who cant fit into clothes offered at traditional venues, has outfitted sports legends like Julius Irving, Karl Mecklenburg and numerous local basketball and football players.
Mr. Kaufman, who was 6 feet tall, started the shop because he couldnt find clothes suitable for his stature.
He often told customers who made a purchase that, You couldnt have spent money on a nicer guy.
A remarkable salesperson, Mr. Kaufman was also very generous to those suffering from financial hardship.
Before the existence of dorms on DU campus, he provided temporary housing and meals to DU basketball players.
He also provided free suits to the families of athletes who died in a state of poverty so they could bury their loved ones with dignity.
Mr. Kaufman was born Aug. 31, 1934, in Landau, Germany. He arrived in the US as a young boy with his parents, who were fleeing Nazi Germany, and came to Denver about 53 years ago.
He graduated Tulane University.
Mr. Kaufman married Sue Cowan on Nov. 11, 1958. She passed away on June 14, 2002.
Mr. Kaufman is survived by his son Sam (Mindy) Kaufman of Evergreen and daughter Mitzi (Richard) Townshend of Centennial; brother Joe (Glenda) Kaufman of Denver; and grandchildren Lindsay and Melissa Kaufman and Spencer and Tristan Townshend.
Contributions may be made to the National Council of Jewish Women, Sue Kaufman Memorial Scholarship Fund, POB 371647, Denver, CO 80237-5647.
