Thomas E. Rafferty, 76 of Mason City passed away peacefully surrounded by family Monday, December 4, 2023.
Memorial Services will be held 11:00 am Monday, December 18, 2023 at Wesley United Methodist Church, 1405 South Pennsylvania, Mason City with Rev. Nadine Ilunga officiating. He will be buried at Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery in a private family committal.
Visitation will be held from 2:00pm to 4:00pm Sunday, December 17, 2023 at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd Street NE, Mason City.
In lieu of flowers donations may be directed in care of his family.
Thomas Edward III was born September 23, 1947 in Mason City, the eldest son of Thomas Edward Jr. and Leona Anne (Helin) Rafferty. After losing his father at a young age, Tom learned responsibility and reliability, helping to lead the household. He graduated from Newman Catholic High School in 1966, later earning a Bachelors in Business from University of South Dakota. In a blizzard in the middle of January 1982, Thomas met the love of his life, Donna Sue Dieken. The couple was married November 19, 1983 and blessed with two daughters: Annie and Meagan. Thomas was a dedicated husband and father, a constant presence, whether in the dugout or in the stands of the kids’ events. Being a salesman ran in Tom’s blood, a natural people person, he loved to talk and connect with people. No matter where he went, there was always someone Tom knew, and he loved taking the time to talk with them. Most recently he worked for Auto Edge, until his retirement in 2016 after a 16 year tenure.
Tom embraced life’s adventures with a passion for hunting, fishing, and cherished moments with family and friends. Whether he was watching his daughters scare the pheasants in open fields or walking the waters with Cliff, Gary and Pat, he looked forward to time outdoors. Tom enjoyed New Year’s Eve movies with Donna and time at The Saddle Company. A staunch Green Bay Packers fan, he made the trip to Lambeau Field, leaving an enduring mark on his fandom. Tom’s strength and stubbornness were outweighed by his selflessness and care for others. He was devoted to his grandchildren, a constant presence at their games, both in person and online, reflecting his unwavering support. Tom was a longtime member of the Wild Turkey Federation and Fin and Feather. He looked forward to evenings at the YMCA playing Racquetball. He eventually made it back to the field, playing and umpiring local Co-ed softball games.
We will remember Tom for the warmth he brought to family gatherings, the laughter on hunting trips, and the resounding cheers for the Packers.
Those left behind are his beloved wife, Donna; daughters, Annie Rose of Mason City, and Meagan (Mike “Big Dog”) Krubeck, of Cambria, WI; grandchildren, Aydon Rafferty, Caleb and Sadie Rose, Abby, Kara and Leah Krubeck; sister, Marcia (Charlie) Anderson; brother, Patrick “Pat” (Pam) Rafferty; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family.
Preceding him in death are his parents; siblings, Barb and Gary Rush, Peg and Cliff Davis, and Pamela Aird; and a nephew, Jeff Davis.
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