Sam William Rafaill's Obituary
Sam W. Rafaill passed from this life to his eternal reward on May 1, 2016 at 3:45pm at age 90. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Drs. William and Barbara Rafaill, his daughter and son-in-law, Mrs. Nancy and Dr. Louis Regas, granddaughter Emily Regas, her spouse, Mary Ellen Kennel and great granddaughters Chloe and Lila Regas and granddaughter Melissa Patterson and her husband Ivan. Sam was born in Detroit, MI and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, turning 18 in Murmansk, Russia. He was proud to be a veteran and had the experience of a lifetime when he participated in the Honor Flight program in May, 2010 traveling to Washington, D.C. to see the WWII Memorial. Although he never forgot his roots, he loved living in San Diego after moving here in 1971. Here he was a top salesman for University and Drew Ford and also enjoyed eighteen years as an usher for the San Diego Padres. Faith guided his life and he never wanted to miss church even when his health declined. Family was his top priority and his great granddaughters brought a sparkle to his eyes no matter how badly he was feeling. He was widowed twice and was an amazing caregiver for both of his wives, Helen and Peggy, both of whom died Christmas day fourteen years a part. If you knew Sam you knew he loved children, baseball, cars, dogs and traveling. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and cousin; he also was a good friend to all he met bringing joy and humor wherever he went. He will be dearly missed.Sam’s family and friends in Michigan will pay their respect and celebrate his life as well. On Saturday, June 4th, the church will open from 12:30-2:30pm and the service will begin at 1:00pm. Farmington Hills Church of God 25717 Power Road Farmington Hills, MI 48336 248-477-9144If you would like to make a donation in Sam’s memory in lieu of flowers, you may donate to one of the following:Unity San Diego 3770 Altadena Ave. San Diego, CA 92105Farmington Hills Church of God 25717 Power Rd. Farmington Hills, MI 48336Alzheimer’s Association alz.org
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