Michael Rafinski
July 17, 1946 — October 28, 2016
Michael William Rafinski
Michael W. Rafinski, 70, longtime resident of Hibbing, died Friday, October 28, 2016, in his home. He was born on July 17, 1946 to Edward and Mary Ellen (Nolan) Rafinski in Deer River, MN. Michael attended Hibbing schools, graduating from Hibbing High School. Michael then attended a junior college in Sterling, New Mexico for two years. After school he was drafted and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Michael was a decorated veteran. He received 3 purple hearts and a Bronze Star with “V” for valor. He proudly served his country with the Americal Divison. After the war, he came home to Hibbing and was employed with the U.S. Postal service as a postal clerk. He retired in 2004 after 28 years of service. He was a member of the VFW Post 8510 of Hibbing. Michael enjoyed hunting, fishing and took great pride in his craftsmanship. He was also very active in softball early on in his life. He proudly played for, coached and managed many Kahler Softball teams throughout his career.
He is survived by four children: Scott (Abbi Kutter) Rafinski of Rogers, MN, James (Kristy) Rafinski of Elk River, MN, Nick Rafinski of Elk River, MN, and Kristen Rafinski of Hibbing, MN; two grandchildren; Aubrey Rafinski and Kirsten Elliot, three siblings; John (Karen) Rafinski of Ohio, Terry (Raymond) Rafinski, Asheville, NC, and Gina (Guy) Chiodi, Duluth, MN, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son, Michael Edward Rafinski, and his sister, Judy “Kiki” Stish.
Funeral services for Michael will be 1:00pm, Tuesday, November 1, 2016 at Dougherty Funeral Home of Hibbing. Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral service at the funeral home on Tuesday. Interment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hibbing. Arrangements are with the Dougherty Funeral Home of Hibbing.
To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.doughertyofhibbing.com .