Lloyd C. Rufershafer

Today was the day, October 7, 2025, that our beloved dad's time on Earth came to an end. Dad was on hospice and received phenomenal care for almost 36 months. He made it very clear he was not ready to "go" as he wanted more time with his family and friends. Even though he had a very full and wonderful life, he still wanted to see and do just a few more things. We have never witnessed a man who had such a fierce inner will to live, let alone forever. He is our hero.
Our dad was very kind, hardworking, loving, funny, feisty and very obstinate at times. Whenever we needed anything throughout our lives, he was always there in a heartbeat to help lend a hand or ear. He was a lifelong avid boater, hunter and fisherman who had a great love for the outdoors and anything that involved nature. His spirit is now at peace and reunited with our mom after being apart for almost four years.
Lloyd was born and adopted in Bay City, MI on March 27, 1939. Shortly after his 19th birthday, he decided to move to Chicago and make a new life in a big city. Eight years later, his world was turned upside-down when he met our mother Mari, the fiery redhead from Dublin. The sparks flew and they were married five months later, for a total of 55 wonderful years.
Lloyd had searched for many years for his biological family, but it always came to a dead end. A few years ago, just before his 80th birthday, Allen Bauer found his entire family (both sides) through Ancestry DNA. When we told our dad, it was the only time in his life that he didn't have a comeback or utter one smart word (a truly epic event) as he was completely stunned! In September of 2019 he met his siblings on his mother's side and in 2020, he got to meet his siblings on his father's side.
Lloyd leaves behind his daughter Karen Rahn (Allen Bauer) and son Steve Rufershafer (Patty), his good friend Mel Smith of 30 plus years and our dear family friend Mary Lane. In Ireland, Carmel, Noel, Rachel, Gerard, Martin and Susan. In the U.S., his siblings, Julie, Randy, Bill and Jim. Please know how all of you touched our dad's soul getting to know each of you. It was a major highlight in his life knowing he had a family in Ireland and here in the United States.
We wish to express our deepest gratitude to Cardinal/Transitions Hospice. Their compassion, countless late night/daytime visits, laughter and guidance helped us navigate Dad's journey with grace, dignity and love. You are all an amazing group of beautiful souls, and we are so grateful for all of you.
The world feels dimmer without our parents' light. The lessons they have taught us, the unconditional love they had for us and the values they instilled in our core, will help guide my brother and I throughout our lives. Grief is the deepest proof that love existed, that something beautiful once touched our life. Our love for you Daddy-O is eternal. Until we meet again
It was Lloyd's decision for cremation to take place. Funeral home arrangements are being provided by Trahan Funeral Chapel. Celebrate Lloyd's life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at www.trahanfc.com