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Gene Rafanelli Obituary
75, Cherished father, brother, and friend, of Scottsdale, AZ, passed away May 22, 2017. He is survived by his daughter, Cara Beardmore (Dan), brother Ralph Rafanelli (Marcy), nephew Paul Rafanelli, niece Lola Riojas (Michael), and great nephew & niece Luke and Rena Riojas. Gene was born in Seattle, WA on June 11, 1941 to Gino & Lola Rafanelli, where he grew up and graduated from Seattle University. After he received his Military Commission he attained a distinguished career in the Army, retiring as a highly decorated Colonel. After retiring from 30 years active duty, Gene and his wife Judith moved to San Jose, CA where Gene organized and taught the first, and highly successful JROTC program at Andrew Hill High School. Upon retiring from teaching, he and Judith moved to Scottsdale in 2005 to be near their daughter Cara and their many friends. Gene was an active member and officer of several service organizations such as AUSA, AVHOF, MOAA, MOWW, and The Veterans Heritage Project. He will be deeply missed. A memorial will be held in his honor June 21, 2017, 11:00 A.M. at McCormick Ranch Golf Club at 7505 E McCormick Pkwy, in Scottsdale, Arizona. A funeral mass will be announced at a future date. Gene's final resting place will be Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to AZ Territorial Chapter, AUSA, 13236 N 7th St., Suite 4, Box 196, Phoenix, AZ 85022.
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Memories and Condolences
for Gene Rafanelli
6 Entries
Phil Klippel
June 5, 2023
It´s been a long time Gene but I haven´t forgotten you. RIP brother!
Phil
J C
February 13, 2018
I am so sorry to hear about his passing. I met him at an event many years ago and he was a very sincere and pleasant person to speak with.
Fernando Campos
November 3, 2017
Colonel, Rafanelli
You Changed my Life and Put me in the Direction of Success. You Taught Me Never to Give Up, Always Have Integrity, and to be a Leader. I will miss your Laugh, Your Mentorship/Freindship, and Guidance. Thank You for all that you have Done for this Country, Community, and the Impact you have had on my Life. Sir You will Forever be Remembered.!
Phil Klippel
September 3, 2017
We were Majors together in the Readiness Group Los Angeles (Infantry and Armor Branch Assistance Teams. A level headed officer and a good friend. I remember your attempt at learning Italian. You were flustered because, although of Italian descent, It didn't come easy. I modeled a character in one of my writings after you.
Rest in peace Gene.
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Chandra Roberts
June 21, 2017
Gene served as fine example of a lifetime of selfless service and dedication to his country, family and friends. I got the pleasure of knowing Gene through his devotion to AUSA and ASU ROTC. His legacy will live on through his example!
Jeanne Blaes
June 16, 2017
Gene was a wonderful friend, brother-in-arms, and mentor. My heart is very heavy with his passing. I cannot say enough about his great and warming spirit, and the boundless energy with which he gave back to our Veteran's community and youth organizations promoting civic responsibility. He is a true hero in all aspects of the word. We all certainly have been feeling his loss ... rest in peace, my friend ... I know that you are strolling among the beautiful French lavender fields with your beloved Judie now.
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