Gary Lee Raffensberger

On November 14, 2023, Gary Lee Raffensberger passed away peacefully in his home at the age of 76 in Manistique, Michigan. Gary was born April 16, 1947 in Jackson, MI to Carl and Mildred Raffensberger. He grew up with two sisters and one brother. Gary attended Jackson Public schools. Gary had three children from his marriage to Kathryn Raffensberger, two sons and one daughter.
In 1979 he and his family moved to Schoolcraft County where he worked at Manistique Tool and Die. The highlights of his working career include his time spent with McDonnell Douglas Aerospace Manufacturing and his own entrepreneurial endeavors as G L Raffensberger and Associates.
Gary loved to create and build things with his hands, including his log cabin and sawmill. He enjoyed the outdoors and cutting wood as well as working in his machine shop, engineering and could manufacture anything one may need.
Gary could be described as strong-willed and determined, once he had a goal in his mind there was no stopping him. He was a very bright man and was always learning. His passion for knowledge never dulled and he continued to take courses until his passing.
Gary is survived by his children, Gary (Becky) Raffensberger II of Jackson, MI; Christopher Raffensberger of Manitou Beach, and Rebecca (Jacob) Mastie of Concord, MI. Gary is also survived by his six grandchildren, Dillin, Colton, Carter, Joseph, Adelia, and Luke.
Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Mildred; sisters, Carolyn Webb, Judith Thicke and brother Carthal Conant.
Memorial donations made in Gary's honor may be sent to his family for future designation. Please send via regular mail to the Fausett Family Funeral Home at 311 Arbutus Avenue, Manistique, MI 49854.
The memorial service will be announced at a later date by the family. Fausett Family Funeral Homes is assisting the family with arrangements.