Edward J. Rafferty III

Ed would like you to know his work here was completed on September 27, 2019. He received an offer he could not refuse, for an appointment from which he will not be returning. This assignment comes with a huge sign-on bonus: no cancer, no debilitating arthritis, and a reunion with family and friends he has not seen in a long time. His new mission takes him to a wonderful place where he will be cooking, reading long and cerebral nonfiction books, fishing, teaching karate, and drinking beer until his hearts’ content. He left detailed instructions for his wife and children to celebrate his mission here, which has now been completed. Poor adherence to his instruction will not be tolerated. Ed loved excessively: spicey food, fishing, Airedale terriers, cooking Italian meals, a nice peaty scotch, Notre Dame football, history, and his family. Not necessarily in that order. He hated seafood, chemotherapy and Donald Trump. Not necessarily in that order. He valued intellect, education, dry and dark wit, being generous, always helping someone in need, and getting back up…no matter how many times or how hard you’re knocked down. He taught these values to his children and they will be passed down to his grandson, Stellan. This loss is immeasurable for his family, and senior executives at Balentine Ale, who will need to brace for the impact of the anticipated drop in sales. Written by his loving daughter, Caitlin Brueckner

Edward J. Rafferty III, 69, of North Smithfield, RI. passed away September 27, 2019, at Rhode Island Hospital. He was a loving husband for 33 years to Eileen (Entenmann) Rafferty, born in Providence, son of the late Edward J. & Isabelle A. (Cunningham) Rafferty. Edward was a manager in the food & beverage industry. He graduated with an MBA from Bryant University. Edward was a black belt in karate and enjoyed teaching karate for many years. His passions include cooking, gardening, reading and spending time with his family and his dog. Besides his wife he is survived by his children, Caitlin Brueckner and husband Jim and an unexpected and treasured gift, son, Casper White, grandson, Stellan Brueckner, sister, Donna Drapeau and husband Denis, niece, Lauren Edwards and husband Jason and nephew, Neal Drapeau. He also leaves many nieces and nephews and his recently adopted Airedale, Jack. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday October 7, 2019 at 11 am in St. John the Evangelist Church, Church St. Slatersville, RI. Burial will be private. Calling hours will be held Sunday from 4-7 pm in the Keene-Brown Funeral Home 445 Greenville Rd. North Smithfield. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Foster Forward 55 S. Brow Street, East Providence, RI 02914 or Friends of North Smithfield Animal Shelter, 281 Quaker Highway, North Smithfield, RI 02896.

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