Martin E. Rafferty

Martin E. Rafferty passed away peacefully at home with family by his side on March 27, 2023. He was born on July 29, 1946, in the Bronx, New York. He had six siblings James Rafferty, Jack Rafferty, Thomas Rafferty, George Rafferty, Richard Rafferty and Martha Rafferty.

Martin is survived by his wife of 34 years, Betsy Rafferty, their sons Michael Foley (Stephanie Foley), Christopher Foley (Heather Foley) and Arthur Rafferty, his children Nancy DeRobertis and Martin Rafferty Jr., his sister Martha Rafferty, his sisters-in-law Judy Rafferty, Janet Rafferty and Rosalie Rafferty, as well as his grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Martin served his country in the United States Air Force for 8 years. He was most proud of being a crane operator in New York City. Martin and Betsy moved to Bradenton, Florida, in 1993. Upon arriving in Florida, he worked for Tropicana. He then took a job with Manatee County, where he spent the next 27 years, and retired at 76 as a supervisor. Over the years, they made countless, wonderful friends and memories that will last forever. Unfortunately, he was never able to enjoy his retirement due to his illness.

Martin was blessed with 10 grandchildren: Anthony DeRobertis, Gabriel DeRobertis, Nicole Rafferty, Alexander Foley, Audrey Robuck, Caitlin Foley, Allison Foley, Emily Foley, Rhys Foley, and Nolan Foley. They will have wonderful memories of Grandpa Gene.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, April 8, 2023, from 2:00-4:00 PM, with a funeral service to follow at Shannon Funeral Home, located at 1015 14th St. W, Bradenton, Florida 34205.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation in his name to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or Tidewell Hospice of Manatee County.