Timothy Rafferty

Timothy RaffertySaginaw, Michigan

Timothy Rafferty, age 77, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Covenant Cooper Medical Center in Saginaw, Michigan.

Tim was born on November 22, 1948, in Niagara Falls, New York, to the late Paul Rafferty and Margorie (Bartlebaugh) Rafferty. On August 17, 2019, he married the love of his life, Susan, who survives him.

A proud graduate of Lewiston-Porter High School, Tim excelled in track and cross country, setting school records that stood as a testament to his determination and drive. He later graduated from Kelly Business School and then honorably served in the United States Naval Reserve.

Throughout his working years, Tim was employed at Kelly’s County Store in Grand Island, NY, as well as Occidental Chemical and DuPont, from which he retired. 

Beyond his professional career, Tim was a master carpenter and gifted cabinet maker. His hands built not only fine cabinetry but also cherished memories for family and friends. He had a special love for building and restoring grandfather clocks—patiently crafting each piece with precision and pride. In the 1980s, he founded his own carpentry business, “The 5 R’s,” reflecting both his craftsmanship and his commitment to excellence.

Above all, Tim’s greatest passion was his faith in God, his family, and serving others. He faithfully ministered for many years as a youth pastor at his church, where he was lovingly known as “Pastor Tim.” One of his children fondly remembered hearing the youth call him Pastor Tim and thinking, “His name is Dad—why are you calling him that?” It was only later they understood that many knew and loved him in that role, too. His influence reached far beyond his own family, shaping young lives with wisdom, humor, and a deep love for the Lord.

Tim is a one-of-a-kind guy!  Once you’ve met him, you’ll never forget him!  With his mismatched shoes and funny hats, he strikes up many enlightening chats!

Just within the past year, Tim accomplished two goals he’s had for a long time: Starting an art business, and publishing a book. He stated with great satisfaction, he succeeded.  With his wife, Susan, he established Save and Transform Creations LLC – where the discarded is transformed into new and beautiful creations!  And his book: The Ramblings of an Old Man, is now published, available on Amazon, and soon to be in the bookstores! He was so proud to have fulfilled those two goals!

Tim is survived by his devoted wife, Susan; his children, Timothy (Barbara) Rafferty, Jill (Doug) Obrochta, and Corrinna (Dan) Rhinehardt; his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Thompson of Wilson, NY, and Diane Tolley of Ohio.

In addition to his parents, Tim was preceded in death by his siblings Terrie, Penny, Linda, James, and Daniel, as well as his first wife, Mary Canterbury Rafferty, and second wife, Linda Augustino Rafferty.

A funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 9, 2026, at Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth, 590 N. Franklin St., Frankenmuth. Rev. Tim Mac Murray will officiate, with burial to follow at Eastlawn Memorial Gardens. The service will be livestreamed on Cederberg’s Facebook Page, and available for viewing here afterwards. Tim’s family will receive visitors at the funeral home on Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Those wishing to express sympathy may consider memorial contributions to Door Church, 30 N. Center Rd., Suite 2, Saginaw, MI 48638, or Saginaw Rescue Mission, 1021 Burt Street, PO Box 548, Saginaw, MI 48606.