Paul K. Raffer M.D.

It is with a deep sense of sadness that the family of Paul Raffer announces his passing after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 76.
At each step of his life journey, Paul fostered the closest of enduring friendships. He grew up in Toms River, New Jersey, where his passion for sports and musical theater began. A Little League Champ later recognized in Toms River Regional Schools Hall of Fame, Paul graduated pre-med from Franklin & Marshall where he participated in football, acted and sang at the Green Room Theatre, and became a member and vice-president of Zeta Beta Tau fraternity.
His path to medicine continued at New Jersey Medical School followed by interning at Mt. Zion Hospital, San Francisco (where he met his wife Donna) and moving to San Diego for neurology training at UCSD, where he was Chief Resident. He had a solo private practice of neurology for decades, his office adjacent to Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center. Dr. Raffer will be remembered as a respected colleague and a highly knowledgeable, kind and compassionate physician.
A long-time Chula Vista Club Rotarian and recent president of the Rotary Club of Palm Springs, he planned musical events featuring the "Paul Raffer Singers," and often volunteered in Rotary projects helping his local communities. A talented musician and captivating singer, he delighted many by accepting requests to perform at weddings and special occasions.
A life filled with family and friendships spanning over the decades brought many treasured moments of laughter and camaraderie. Raffer holiday dinners featured enthusiastic gatherings at the piano and guitar. Local colleagues and neighbors mingled with Paul's fraternity brothers at events from touch football games to weddings and trips, concerts and theater. Paul enjoyed playing golf and tennis, solving crosswords and sudoko, listening to music, writing a book, and spending family time with his wife, children and grandchildren, sister and cousins. He inspired others, giving unwavering support and encouragement, his love, and loyal friendship.
Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, Paul is survived by four daughters and sons-in law, Allison Steckley (Brian) of San Francisco; Nikki Whittemore (Mike) of Coronado; Sara Lee (Brandon) of La Mesa; Elizabeth Anderson (Karl) of Portland; six grandchildren: Madeleine Squire (Nathan), Aidan, Abigail, Stella, and Julian; and his sister, Sharon Raffer of Coronado. He was predeceased by his wife, Donna and by his parents, Ray and Leo Raffer.
A gathering of friends and family to remember Paul is being planned for sometime in the future.