Donna M. Kaufmann

Donna M. Kaufmann peacefully passed away, surrounded by her family, on October 26th, 2026, at her home in North Chatham, Massachusetts.
Donna will be remembered as an incredible wife, mother, sister, friend, teacher, crafter, and community leader. She impacted countless lives through her smile, creativity, and endless love. She will be missed dearly.
   Donna was born on October 10th, 1959, in Claremont, New Hampshire, daughter of Donato and Elizabeth Mainolfi.
   After graduating from Lesley University, Donna moved to Acton, Massachusetts, with her husband and high school sweetheart, Glen, where they raised their two boys, Eric and Andrew. Donna loved being a mom. In addition to being an active member of the Acton school system and team mom for the basketball and baseball teams – she also sewed Halloween costumes for her boys and threw incredibly intricate birthday parties.
As Eric and Andrew grew, Donna followed her passion for education, completed a Master’s in Library Science at Simmons University, and worked as an elementary school library teacher in the Acton and Hudson school systems. Donna made the library a place where students felt cared for and inspired them to follow their curiosities. Donna made an impression on the lives of many children, who later would come back in middle school and high school to visit Donna.
For over 30 years, she spent the summer months in Chatham with her family, spending her days beachside with a book or knitting project. Known as an incredible host, Donna truly felt happiest when her home was filled with family, friends, and love. She threw many backyard bonfires, graduation parties, and, most notably, her son Andrew’s wedding, which included a clam bake, live band, and plenty of dancing.
In retirement, Donna’s positivity and friendliness made finding friends and activities in Chatham easy. She was Chair of the Chatham Historical Society Atwood Museum, a Board member of the Women’s Club, President of the Ryders Cove Landing Association, a member of the Chatham Garden Club, and multiple book clubs. At times, she joked she was busier in retirement than she was working full-time. But she would have it no other way.
Donna truly lived a life of love and optimism. She will always be remembered for her huge, beautiful smile.
Donna is survived by her husband, Glen, sons, Eric and Andrew, and brother, Dan.
To honor her memory, the Kaufmann family will welcome friends and family to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, November 7th, at Chapman Funerals & Cremations, Blute Chapel, 678 Main Street, Harwich Center. Guests are welcome to come by between 1 and 3 p.m. to share stories and commemorate her lasting impact on those who knew her. 
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Donna’s name to The Atwood Museum in Chatham, Massachusetts.
To leave notes of comfort for Donna’s family, please visit www.chapmanfuneral.com