Obituary of Michael Patrick Rafferty

Michael Patrick Rafferty, 54, of Corning NY, passed away Wednesday, December 18 after an extended illness. Michael was a life long resident of Addison and Corning NY. He was a “jack of all trades”, working mainly as a contractor. He was gifted at his job, especially finish work. But, His real joy in life, besides spending time with his family and friends was when he was in the woods hunting or around any body of water fishing, whether it was at the swamp, river, lake, or the ocean in his nephew Joshua’s boat. Michael took his hunting and fishing seriously and passed down his knowledge and wisdom, along with many, many stories to his nephews and nieces who were fortunate enough to learn from him. Every one of them had an “uncle Mike story” and many fond memories of their hunting or fishing experiences with him. It was his absolute joy in life to share in these life experiences with them. Although, he was pretty secretive about his fishing “honey holes”. Michael was a man who lived his life to the fullest, which included many adventures. He even checked skydiving off his bucket list. He loved riding his motorcycle with his friends, entering contests and competitions showing off his motorcycle driving skill, and hunting and fishing skills. If he wasn’t on his motorcycle with his best friend Deanna, or in the woods, or swamp, he was wrestling and playing with “the kids”. He had a real love for family and never missed a get together, whether it be a wedding, funeral, or one of the many Rafferty shindigs. He was always there, bringing his homemade venison jerky, or shrimp tray with homemade cocktail sauce, or homemade chili. Michael was predeceased by his wonderful parents, Thomas & Rosemary (Brown) Rafferty, his three older brothers Daniel, Steven, and Timothy; three nephews Timothy Jr., Jason Rafferty, and Caleb Smith. He is survived by his two children Rachelle (Deserea) Rafferty, Brennon (Nicole) Rafferty; his partner Deanna Mason and her daughter Ava; siblings Colleen (Timothy) Morseman, Rosemary Smith, Robin (Michael) Benesh, Shaun Rafferty, Sharon (James) Machuga; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. There will be a Celebration of Life for Michael on Sunday, January 5 at 1:00pm at the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Club, 7724 State Route 417, Addison NY. Arrangements are with the H.P. Smith & Son Inc., Funeral Home, Woodhull NY.