Patricia Raffaele

Patricia Lou Raffaele, 90, of Traverse City, died Saturday, May 2, 2026. She was born on March 31, 1936 in Pontiac the daughter of Gilbert Joseph and Georgia Alberta (Middleton) Lesperance.

She graduated from Holly High School in 1953.

Patricia worked as a CNA for several years for nursing homes and a Flint Hospital. After moving to Traverse City in 1976, she worked as cashier and stock person at Kmart and retired when they closed.

She loved playing cards, especially playing Bunco with her lady friends. Patricia enjoyed bowling in several Women’s bowling leagues. She loved her books and reading; enjoyed fishing and hunting and won a shooting competition. An avid Bingo player and she was a great dancer.

Patricia is survived by her children, Mike (Michele) Tobias, Shelley McPherson and (Joe), and Kevin (Teresa) Raffaele; 23, grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren; brother, Buck Lesperance and her beloved stepchildren, Andy, Karla, Bill Jr. and Mary.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Gilbert and Georgia; husband, William “Bill” Raffaele, daughter, Tammy Marie Tobias; sister, Edith Prince and stepdaughters, Annette and Cheryl.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Munson Hospice in honor of the great care and kindness they gave Patricia.

An informal gathering will be held from 1pm to 3pm, Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at Life Story Funeral Home. A celebration of life service will start at 3pm with a light food reception to follow.

Please visit www.lifestorytc.com to share your thoughts and more.