Rae Elizabeth Harfst

08/25/1938 - 10/22/2025

Rae Harfst (Asel), of Williamsburg, Michigan, passed away at her home on October 22, 2025. She was dearly loved by her family and is now reunited with her husband, Dan Harfst, her partner in faith, family, and service.
A proud lifelong educator, Rae spent her extensive career as an elementary school teacher in Essexville-Hampton school district. A longtime and active member of her church, she served in leadership roles, sang in the choir, and showed up wherever help was needed. She was selfless almost to a fault, always putting others before herself - yet anyone who knew Rae would tell you she was no pushover. She was tough. Whether it was caring for her
home, tackling a project, or speaking her mind, Rae did it with conviction and heart. Beneath her grit was a deep well of compassion and an unwavering sense of responsibility for the people she loved.
Above all, Rae was the matriarch of her family - the steady hand, the moral compass, and the heart that held everyone together.
Rae's life was a testament to purpose, faith, and family. She gave more than she took, stood firm in what she believed, and left the world better than she found it.
Rae is survived by her sons Craig (Kristi) Harfst, son Curt (Barb) Harfst, grandson Jeffrey (Andrea) Harfst, granddaughter Sarah (Sean) Goheen, grandson Tyler (Jana) Harfst, grandson Mathew Harfst, as well as six great-grandchildren. Rae was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Edward Harfst.
Visitation will be held at the Elk Rapids First Presbyterian Church on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 10:00 -11:00am, with the funeral service immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Arrangements being handled by Jowett Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Benzonia.