John J. “JK” Kaufman, 69, of Dubuque died Monday, May 18, 2026. In keeping with JK’s wishes, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

JK was born February 15, 1957 in Dubuque, son of William and Josephine (Dausner) Kaufman.

He graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School in 1975. While at Hempstead, he competed in many sports. He was most proud of being co-champs in football and winning a state championship in baseball.

On April 9, 1994, he married Linda Cabalka in Dubuque.

JK worked at Barnstead Thermolyne where he was proud to be a union representative for IBEW Local 704.

JK played rugby with the original Dubuque Dogs and was an avid runner. He enjoyed a good cigar and a fine drink. He was also an avid Cubs fan. He loved spending time with his dog, Havana.  Most of all, he loved spending time with his kids and grandkids.

He is survived by his wife Linda, of Dubuque; three children, Kelsey (Andrew) McNamee, and Allison and Nicole Kaufman, all of Dubuque; two grandchildren, Jaylynn Kaufman and Waylon McNamee; and Goddaughter Zoey Kaufman and her daughter, Meilani, all of Dubuque.

He is also survived by a brother, Mark (Jolene) Kaufman of Dubuque, his father in law, Fritz Cabalka of Dubuque; brother in law, Dave (Linda) Cabalka of Manchester, Iowa; sister in law, Diane (Don) Albert of Waukesha, WI and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a mother in law, Ruth Cabalka.