Donna Jean Rafko, age 84 of Monroe, passed away Sunday, January 8, 2023 at Wellspring Lutheran Home. She had been in declining health for three years.
Born January 11, 1938 in Monroe, Donna was the daughter of the late Paul and Frances (Bates) Stilwell. She attended Monroe High School and married John J. "Frank" Rafko on February 25, 1954 in Monroe. Together they raised four children. He preceded her in death on October 13, 2020.
In her younger years, Donna was employed by Morris Lumber and then by Grace Lutheran Church for many years. She was an active member of the church, served as Past-President of its Ladies Society, and member of the Lutheran Women Missionary League. Donna also devoted her spare time by assisting with church dinners and funeral luncheons. She lovingly cared for her family and enjoyed cooking and baking, especially bread.
Donna is survived by her children: Frank Rafko of Monroe, Susan (Gaylord) Rafko-Bayer of Monroe, David (Dawn) Rafko of Monroe, and Andrew (Mary Kay) Rafko of Erie, MI; a brother, Paul Stilwell of Loretto, TN; four grandchildren: Daniel (Jamie) Rafko, James (Ariel) Rafko, Amber (Dane) Stritt, and Erica (John Krug) Rafko; six great-grandchildren: Madison Revard, Morgan Revard, Colin Assenmacher, Madelyn Krug, Jacob Rafko, and Logan Rafko.
In addition to her parents and husband, Donna was also preceded in death by a granddaughter, Stephanie Rafko.
Family and friends may visit from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12th at Bacarella Funeral Home. She will lie in state Friday at 10 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church where services will begin at 11 a.m. The church pastor, Rev. Mark Witte will officiate followed by burial at Roselawn Memorial Park.
Memorial donations are suggested to Grace Lutheran Ladies Society or Grace Lutheran Memorial Fund.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com .