Mary Kaufman

Chatsworth lost one of its great ladies on March 24, 2016. Although Mary Kaufman was born in Oakland, Chatsworth was the place Mary called home. Her passion for horses and her fondness for Chatsworth’s tight knit equestrian community prompted her to make a dream come true and purchase a small horse ranch in the heart of the horsekeeping district. Mary named it “The Redhawk Ranch” in honor and memory of her beloved Linda “L.J.” Pope and she shared it with her beloved horses and dogs.

Mary’s love for horses started later in life than most when she met the horse that changed her life, Ace. With the help and guidance of her good friend Ted Diggins, Mary’s skills as an equestrian developed quickly and she soon found herself riding the trails in Chatsworth and making many new friends along the way.

As Mary’s equestrian skills grew, she volunteered and rode with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Mounted Patrol where she had many friends. She also enjoyed participating in Cattle Sorting and joined a local club she rode with monthly.

When Mary saw the threats of progress to Chatsworth’s horsekeeping, she got involved with Equestrian Trails Inc.’s Corral 54 eventually serving as its President for many years.

What started out as some light volunteer work eventually had Mary working on several boards which kept her at the forefront of Chatsworth’s community leaders. Her outgoing nature and political savvy helped bridge the gap between local politicians and the horsekeeping community.

Mary was elected to the Chatsworth Neighborhood Council and chaired its Equestrian Committee. The Equestrian Committee planned and coordinated the Annual Day of the Horse Celebration. Mary visited local schools to educate kids about horses and equestrian safety while encouraging participation in the Annual Day of the Horse Poster Contest and awarding scholarships to contest winners.

As a result of Mary’s work with the San Fernando Valley Fair Board, Governor Schwarzenegger appointed Mary to the 51st Agricultural District where she served on the Board for the San Fernando Valley Fair. Having worked for the Foundation that managed Los Angeles Pierce College’s Equestrian Facility, Mary provided insight to facilitate the Fair’s negotiations with the College.

Councilmember Mitchell Englander appointed Mary to the Los Angeles Equine Advisory Board – a group comprised of representatives citywide.

When not out on the trail, Mary could be found courtside at the UCLA Women’s Basketball games. Mary contributed to the booster’s club and supported the team with enthusiasm every chance she could. She was a hardcore Bruin’s fan through-and-through!

Between riding horses, going to basketball games, and her volunteer work, it would seem Mary had little room in her life for anything other than the many posts she filled so well. But Mary was also a mother and grandmother, and she made the trip up North to visit her family often.

Mary passed away exactly two years to the day after Ace was put down. She often said that she’d meet Ace and LJ on the other side and she was probably right.

The services will be held at the Homestead Acre April 9th from 3 – 6 PM. Mary’s family is asking in lieu of flowers that donations be made in Mary’s name to the Chatsworth Historical Society or the charity of their choice.