Rafe L. McNabb

McNABB, Rafe L.
A beautiful soul departed this world when Rafe McNabb died peacefully on July 20, 2025 at the age of 85 in Victoria, BC., after a few weeks with an aggressive lymphoma. He was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan on July 13, 1940. He was predeceased by his father Lloyd, in 1983, his mother Zena, in 2002, and his second wife Elaine, in 2002. He is survived by his wife Ginny Van Allen, his brother, Rod (Jane), sons Curt (Lavonne) and Aron (Laurie), mother of his sons (Fran), granddaughters Jenna and Kait, as well as stepdaughter Christina (Henry) and step-granddaughter Allie.

Rafe attended school in Moose Jaw and Medicine Hat, and was an Honours graduate of Alberta College of Art. He worked for 30 years as a medical illustrator at Edmonton's University Hospital, and many years as a painter of the diverse Alberta landscape, as well as Vancouver Island seascape following his move there in 1995. He had several successful solo exhibitions and is represented in government, corporate and private collections. As an illustrator his work has been shown world wide.

Despite losing his left hand in an unfortunate accident when he was 15, he lived with this as "only a slight inconvenience", enjoying an active life including hunting, motorcycling, running, and skiing as well as golf. He was a member of the Mt. Brenton Golf Club for over 20 years. He travelled widely and especially enjoyed New Zealand and Kauai.

Rafe was a caring, communicative man who was always ready to enjoy a warm hug.

Family and friends wishing to celebrate his life are invited to an Open House at his home in Chemainus, from 1-5 p.m. on August 23, 2025. If desired, donations in his memory could be made to the BC Cancer Foundation.
Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.firstmemorialduncan.com