Nora M. Rafferty's Obituary
After a three-year battle with cancer, Nora passed away June 10, 2005, surrounded by her family. She was born March 8, 1920 in Cowly, Wyoming. As a young child, Nora and her family moved to Washington State where she attended West Seattle High School. She met and married Robert Mathes in 1937. She was preceded in death by husband Robert and daughter Sherry Mathes Oathout.Nora is survived by her husband of forty years, Leo Gaffikin, Tacoma; daughter Sandra Mathes, West Seattle; brother Dr. Charles Rafferty, California; grandsons Dana Oathout, USN, California, and Kelly Oathout (Kimberly); and great granddaughter, Nicole, BrownÂ's Point.Nora and Leo were longtime residents of Dash Point and moved to Anchorage, Alaska in 1973. Nora was an avid fisherman and spent many peaceful days along the Kenai and other rivers in Alaska catching salmon or participating in fishing tournaments. She loved playing cards and spent many nights winning money from family and friends. She was a very special, warm, and funny woman who will be missed dearly.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Franciscan Hospice House, 2901 Bridgeport Way, Tacoma, WA 98466, or to your favorite charity. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
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