GEORGE CHARLES RAFTER, CM, CD

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GEORGE CHARLES RAFTER, CM, CD September 17, 1922 - April 23, 2012 With sadness we announce the death of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Charlie was born in St. James, MB to Annie and Samuel Rafter. He grew up in Winnipeg, graduating from Daniel McIntyre Collegiate and went on to work at Scott Bathgate Ltd. He also worked for the Federal Government, Manpower and Immigration until his retirement. He was also a long time Governor, Commissionaires Manitoba. Left with wonderful memories are his wife of almost 63 years, Roberta (Faulkner), son Gregg (Brenda) of Richmond, BC; daughter, Carolyn (Martyn Daly) of Winnipeg and five wonderful grandchildren who were the light of his life; (Kellen and Devan of Winnipeg and Jameson, Madison and Alexandra of Richmond); sister Patricia Prudun, sisters-in-law Vi Davis and Gladys Rafter as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers Samuel ( Dick ) and Thomas, and his sisters, Dorothy Bottle and Lillian McGregor. Charlie grew up in Winnipeg's West End, spending summers at the farm in Rossburn, MB. He joined the R.C.A.F. in August 1942 and spent his years abroad as a Wireless Air Gunner with the 422 Squadron. Upon formation of the Air Reserve in 1951, he joined 3052 Technical Training Unit at 17 Wing Headquarters in Winnipeg and later was appointed Honourary Colonel of Air Navigation School. In 1963 he was appointed Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba. He was re-appointed and served seven terms as Aide and Senior Aide. He spent 32 years in this volunteer position. In 1981 he was invested as a Member of the Order of Canada and in January, 1991 the Province of Manitoba made him a member of the Order of The Buffalo Hunt, it's highest honour. In 1962 he and Roberta bought a cottage at Brereton Lake where every summer was spent with family and friends. The tiny cottage became a larger cottage as his family grew over the years. His life-long friendship with Walter Stewart and Fred Lees and their families continued on at the lake, where many fond memories were made. In more recent years, it was his favourite place to spend time with his family and he was never happier than when all five of his grandchildren were present. A Service of Remembrance will take place at St. Chad's Anglican Church (Assiniboia Christian Centre, Portage Avenue and Rouge Road) on Saturday, April 28 at 1:00 p.m. There will be a private family service of interment of ashes. The family would like to thank the staff at Victoria Hospital, 2nd Floor, for their kindness and compassion. We also want to thank Dr. J. B. Sharkey and Dr. M. Jason for their thoughtfulness and wonderful care. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Victoria General Hospital Foundation, 2340 Pembina Hwy., Winnipeg, MB R3T 2E8; CancerCare Manitoba, 1160-675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, or a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE (204) 949-2200 www.nbardal.mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 26, 2012