Matthew Rafferty

RAFFERTY, MATTHEW TROY - Matthew Joseph Rafferty, 27, of Third Avenue, who was taken from us too soon in November 2010, died May 13, 2011. Born in Troy, he was son of Gary (Marianne) Rafferty of Troy and Angela (Richard) Hitts of Big Rapids, Michigan. Raised and educated in Lansingburgh, he attended Burgh schools and later graduated from Newaygo Academy in Michigan. He returned to Troy in 2010 to be with his family. He excelled in the culinary arts, a passion he and his brother Keith shared with their father. He aspired to open his own restaurant one day. He also loved camp fires and family fun at his Dad's camp in Caroga. His smile, ever present, was a view into his heart. He will be missed more than words can say. Survivors in addition to his parents include, two brothers Keith (Tonya) Rafferty of Troy Gary (Carlena) Rafferty, Jr. of Gloversville, and his loving sister Amanda Jeanne Rafferty of Troy, his fianc Christina Beagle of Big Rapids, MI, his cherished goddaughter and niece of Melissa Anne Rafferty and nephew Michael J. Sullivan, aunts and uncles Sharon Mattey (Mark Vincent), Jeanne Rafferty, James (Brenda) Rafferty, Ronald Rafferty all of Troy, and Fred Rafferty of Valley Falls, nieces Sabrina, Amber, Alyssa, a nephew Raymond and countless relatives and friends. Matthew was predeceased by his beloved grandmother Ellarose Rafferty, aunt Carol O'Berry and his uncles Raymond, George "Skip", and Michael Rafferty. Funeral services will be 7:00 p.m. Saturday at the McLoughlin & Mason Funeral Home, corner of 109th and Third Avenue, Lansingburgh with Rev. E. Allen Siebold officiating. Calling hours will be held 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday evening prior to the services at the funeral home. Cremation will take place at the Gardner Earl Crematorium. Private burial will be in St. John's Cemetery, Troy at a later date. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Melissa Rafferty Scholarship Fund. For online guestbook visit www.mcloughlinmason.com.