Gregory John Rafalski

Gregory John Rafalski, 70, of Edwardsburg, Michigan, passed away suddenly, Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at his home. Greg was born on January 3, 1952 in South Bend to John Francis and Florence Lucille (Palkowski) Rafalski. He married his best friend and true love Cheryl Ann Ransom on October 18, 1980 in South Bend. Greg is lovingly survived by his wife of 41 years, Cheryl Ann Rafalski; two loving daughters, Sarah (Richard) Eppers and Jessica Rafalski; two grandchildren, Little Rich Eppers, and Jacob Eppers; his mother Florence L. Rafalski; brother, Bruce (Lisa) Rafalski and two sisters, Susan F. Kosek and Karen S. (Bob) Fraser. His father, John Francis Rafalski, preceded Greg in death.

Greg retired from Dec-O-Art, Inc. as the production manager, after 25 years of service. Throughout his life he maintained love for many hobbies, but more than anything he longed for a cure to his Multiple Sclerosis so he could pass on his love of hunting, fishing, camping, cooking, entertaining, and gardening to his grandchildren. His summers were spent making many memories at Gravel Lake in Lawton, MI, where he taught his daughters how to swim and fish. A huge sports fan, Greg cheered for The Fighting Irish, the Cubs, and, of course, Da Bears! 

He was a lifelong learner, deeply passionate about history, science- especially astronomy and space, and ancient archeology and for the woman he loved, he shared it all. His wife and daughters benefited from his skills and craftsmanship. Cheryl can now change the blades on a lawn mower (something they were both very proud of.) Most of all, Greg’s family was the center of his life, and he did whatever he could to ensure his family knew how much he loved them. 

Visitation for Gregory will be held from 11:00am to 12:30pm on Thursday, September 29, 2022 at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart.  A Service celebrating his life will begin at 12:30 p.m. Pastor Jeremy Sarber will officiate. A Polish Buffet, Greg’s favorite, will follow the service at 1pm. Per his wishes, cremation was chosen. Greg’s family kindly request memorial donations to National Multiple Sclerosis Society: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Donate   

Condolences may be made online at www.billingsfuneralhome.com

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