Roger Alan Kauffman
January 15, 1944 -August 1, 2023
Roger was a beacon of knowledge and wisdom, who dedicated his life to his family and his career as a Mining Engineer.
The son of Charles E. and Florence N. Kauffman, he was born in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania January 15, 1944. After graduating from high school Roger joined the United States Navy and served as a heavy equipment operator with the Seabees in Guam. He attended college at Penn State University earning an Associate Degree in Engineering Surveying Technology and at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology in Socorro, New Mexico earning a Bachelors Degree in Mining Engineering.
With over 40 years in the mining industry, Roger held the positions of Executive Vice President, COO and Vice President of Industrial Minerals with Hecla Mining Company; and President, Vice President, and COO with Amax Gold Inc.
During Roger’s tenure at Hecla Mining Company, he was responsible for the operation, development and growth of Hecla’s highly successful industrial minerals operations including The KT-Clay Company and The Colorado Aggregate Company. With his early career spent at Exxon Corporation and Ranchers Exploration and Development Corporation, Roger’s blend of multi-disciplined management skills, intricate mine development problem-solving and meticulous attention to detail in exploration and development led to prosperous mining operations around the globe. His work and dedication allowed him to make lasting contributions to his field while influencing countless peers and young professionals who looked up to him for guidance.
A man of intellectual curiosity, he found joy in reading technical literature, challenging his understanding, and continually advancing knowledge. Always ready to share his endless knowledge, Roger was an Honorary Professor of Mining and Geological Engineering at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. His love for golfing spoke to his tireless pursuit of improvement and enjoyment of social interactions. With his family, he enjoyed traversing ski slopes in the winter and boating on the lake in the summer. A wood worker, builder, and creator in his own right, his work showcased his patience and dedication as he utilized his considerable skills for home improvement projects.
A beloved Husband, Father, Friend, and Mentor Roger leaves behind a legacy of love, perseverance, and a deep sense of curiosity that will continue to inspire his loved ones and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. His influence and smile will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of those he has touched.
Roger is survived by his wife Renée, his children, Joshua, Camille, and Charles, and his sister-in-law, Carol. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, and his brother, Bill.
Yates Funeral Home of Coeur d’ Alene, ID has been entrusted with arrangements, Roger’s family will be holding a celebration of life in Albuquerque on September 30th, 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family requests considering a donation to New Mexico Tech (https://advancement. nmt.edu/tribute), honoring Roger’s spirit of generosity and lifelong learning.