Gene-Rafanelli-Obituary

Colonel Gene Homer Rafanelli

Phoenix, Arizona

1941 - 2017

About

LOCATION
Phoenix, Arizona

Obituary

Send Flowers

Rafanelli, Colonel Gene Homer 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...

Read More

Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

It´s been a long time Gene but I haven´t forgotten you. RIP brother! Phil

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.

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.!

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.

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!

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...