ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Three years have passed since the Kaufman family heard a joke from their beloved Karl Jurisson.
“On Father’s Day three years ago, he said, ‘Hey, I have to go, I love you guys, best Father’s Day ever.’ He went to check on his girlfriend’s house while she was in Panama,” said David Kaufman, owner of Kaufman’s Coffee & Bagels.
Tragically, Karl never came home. Kaufman explained that a group of teenagers tried to steal Karl’s car, resulting in his fatal shooting.
“He was loving, funny, and everybody knew him. Everyone considered him their best friend,” said Kaufman.
This Father’s Day, the family is turning their grief into purpose by honoring Karl during a second anniversary celebration at Kaufman’s Coffee & Bagels.
“I’m kind of crying inside as we talk about it. We’re honoring him by displaying pictures in the shop, inviting his friends, and wearing the ‘Carl with a K’ hat,” Kaufman said.
David Kaufman plans to donate a portion of Sunday’s profits to the New Mexico Crusaders for Justice, a nonprofit that supports families affected by gun violence and advocates for stronger crime victims’ rights.
“It’s gotten out of hand. If we can prevent even one person from losing a loved one to senseless violence, it’s worth it. My father-in-law would have given them the car, his wallet, even bought them lunch. Instead, they shot him,” Kaufman said.
The Kaufman family is choosing to honor Karl’s memory and invites the community to join them.
Earlier this year, a judge sentenced the man who killed Jurisson to 11 years in prison and five years of probation.