It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Douglas McGregor Raffan of Coleman, Alberta. He passed away on July 25, 2014 in the Crowsnest Pass Continuing Care Centre at the age of 78 years.
Doug was born on June 7, 1936 to Peter Haye Raffan and Victoria May Raffan (nee: Runham) in Trochu, Alberta. He always believed in a sense of fair play, hard work and the importance of family, friendship and fun.
Doug always had a charismatic and strong character. Along with his compassionate nature, he was able to win the love of a beautiful and graceful young lady, Jeanette Grace Friesen, and on September 14, 1957 they married and raised a loving family. Doug and Grace worked hard and started their own trucking company traveling many miles and the original Mohawk service station in the Pass. They both instilled a good work ethic in their family and sacrificed all they had to provide and care for them.
Doug loved fishing, camping, working on the trucks and spending time with his family. He was a proud member of the Lions for over forty years and a member of the Royal Canadian Legion. He started the first female hockey league in the Crowsnest Pass and was well known as an auctioneer. He loved talking to everyone and the phone companies loved him. His sense of humour and laughter was contagious and his storytelling and jokes were just as unique as he was. Doug enjoyed his life up until the passing of his beloved Grace earlier this year. His quality of life decreased rapidly even though his spirit and determination never faltered. We take comfort that they are together once again dancing the night away with each other and all their friends who have gone before them. May he forever find love and laughter on heaven’s highway.
Left to mourn his passing and to celebrate his life include his chidren, Dianne (Don) Tough of Coleman and James (Dorothy) Raffan of Pincher Creek; his precious grandchildren, Lanny Krish, Maggie Raffan and Leah Raffan; his great grandchild, Kaci Lanting-Krish; his sister, Christine Kester of Red Deer; his numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family and friends, especially Cliff & Wendy Reiling and Brian & Darlene McKenna.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife Grace Raffan; his parents, siblings and loyal canine companion, Joey.
The service honouring and celebrating Doug’s life will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. at the Coleman Legion. Donations in memory of the late Doug Raffan may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the charity of your choice. Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel assisting the family. (403) 562-8555.