Geraldine (Gerry) M. Rafinski

Geraldine (Gerry) M. Rafinski, 81, of South Bend, Indiana passed away on Friday, October 12, 2018. She was born on July 11, 1937, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Joseph L. and Laura B. (Brambert) Burzynski. On August 23, 1958, Gerry married her high school sweetheart and love of her life, Michael H. Rafinski, who survives. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this past summer and Mike’s perpetual love and devotion made Gerry’s final months at home possible.  She is also survived by two daughters, Linda M. Rafinski, Nancy E. (Eric) Horvath; one son, David M. (Christine) Rafinski; seven grandchildren, Michael Sorin, Brennan, and Ethan Horvath, Dominik, Cameron, Chloe and Devyn Rafinski; one brother, Dr. Norbert (Darlene) Burzynski of Louisville, Kentucky and her nephews Joseph Burzynski, Norbert Burzynski and niece, Marie Sauer. She was a devoted wife and mother and never missed an opportunity to be present for her children and grandchildren. Her greatest happiness and pride came from spending time with her grandchildren. Her faithful dog, Harley, was her constant companion and greeted all visitors and caregivers with joy and suspicion.

Gerry, a graduate of St. Joseph High school, returned to work in the cafeteria while her children attended. She quickly became the surrogate mother and provider of lunches for countless number of students. Up until her illness, former St. Joseph students would approach her to thank her for being so special and always coming up with lunch money for them. Gerry continued to make sure people were fed by delivering food for St. Vincent de Paul and making food for the funeral lunch program at Corpus Christi until her sickness. Gerry never knew a stranger and was always available if you needed someone to listen. Her kindness and zest for life were immediately felt by all whom met her.

Visitation will be from 3:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 16, 2018 in the Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Dr., South Bend, IN, where a rosary will be prayed at 4:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 17, 2018 in Corpus Christi Catholic Church. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Gerry’s honor to the Center for Hospice Care or Corpus Christi Catholic Church. Gerry’s family wishes to thank the outstanding staff at Hospice, especially Nichole and Danielle, as well our cherished family friend, Karla Fagan. Online condolences may be left at www.kaniewski.com.

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