Fred Kauffman of Port Clinton passed away...

[camojack]

Hello A.T hikers, I hope everyone is well. Wanted to let the trail community know that a long time Trail Angel Fred Kauffman from Port Clinton, PA has passed away at age 88. Fred and his lovely wife Anna Kauffman were member of St. John's Church. They and a handful of other volunteers helped maintain the church pavilion and grounds where over the years thousands of A.T. hikers have been welcome to camp or shelter. Fred was one of our Billville brothers and instrumental in organizing our first two annual thru-hiker feeds in his home town. Most importantly since there is no potable water up at the pavilion, he and Anna have graciously for many years provided water for the hikers from a spigot in their driveway at 75 Penn St. Some of you may have had the pleasure of meeting them while obtaining water there. Fred was a very caring individual and with his good looking fantastic smile along with his husky German Dutch 'say hey' accent he always had great trail stories and time for any hikers visiting town. He will be sorely missed, especially for his kindness and generosity. He helped many thru-hikers with rides to resupply or whatever else their needs may have been. Port Clinton's zip code is 19549, in case any of you would like to send Anna condolences or share a story about Fred with her. Also of note, the previous water providers back in the late 90s were Trail Angels
Robert and Ruth Breon. Robert has since passed on but his wife Ruth still lives in Port Clinton and still walks along the trail in town. Ruth informed me just before Christmas that she'll turn 97 in February, amazing.
Stay safe and well out there.
-Bag o' Tricks

[JPritch]

Thanks for sharing Fred's story. People like him are what keep the AT going and what make it so special!