Michael Rafferty

Bill Cosby once noted that humor can soften even the worst blows that life delivers. Michael was no stranger to this logic. With a seemingly endless supply of jokes and quips he could bring laughter to any situation. No stranger to being social he was a member of the Riverside Senior Citizens’ Assn., the PGW Retirees Assn., the American Legion, volunteered at Zurbrugg Hospital for many years, won several championships with his bowling team and could often be found on the golf course. Having perfected his skills with a trumpet while serving with the army during WWII and Korea, Michael played with the Buddy Winters band for 24 years. And when not on stage, he could often be found square dancing with his wife, Dorothy. rnIn the early 1950s, a woman named Ruth introduced Michael to her sister, Dorothy (nee Toner). They were married for 57 years before her passing in 2006. He is also survived by his children: David (Catherine) of GA, William (Diane) of AZ and Nancy Effinger of Riverside as well as 7 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and his sister Elizabeth.rnCome celebrate 85 great years Saturday at Noon at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery, Cheltenhamrn