Dennis Michael Rafferty

Dennis Michael Rafferty, age 77, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in Bellingham, Washington, on Thursday, July 18, 2024. Born in Trona, California, to Maxwell Lewis and Frances Luella (Longman) Rafferty, Dennis spent his formative years in Needles, California. He was well-known for his active involvement in sports and was president of at least one class. He graduated from La Sierra High School in Riverside, California, where he met his first wife, Sharon. They married on January 30, 1966, and had a daughter, Erin.

After serving in the Air Force during the Vietnam War—a chapter of his life he seldom discussed but which had a lasting impact on him—Dennis pursued his passion for communication at Sacramento City College. He later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communication from the University of Hawaii in 2000.

In the early 1970s, seeking adventure and new opportunities, Dennis moved to Alaska with a group of friends including his future second wife, LaRay, and her son Lee. Dennis embraced the Alaskan lifestyle, working as a fisherman during the 1970s and 1980s. In the fall of 1982, he bought the FV Myra. This period was marked by the rugged beauty of Alaskan waters and the close-knit fishing community, which Dennis cherished deeply. Dennis and LaRay had two children, DeEtta and Killian.

In the late 1980s, Dennis moved to Hawaii, where he married Loretta Larson in 1989, their union was blessed with two daughters, Jacqueline and Denise. During his time in Hawaii, Dennis held various roles, including working in construction and serving as a maintenance and sanitation worker at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. He later became a high school teacher supporting teens with exceptional needs.

Dennis met Belinda in the early 1990s, and they remained good friends for many years. After the death of Loretta, Dennis and Belinda moved to Amargosa Valley, Nevada, where they lived on Erin's property. They married in 2007 and shared many adventures together in their beloved red Mitsubishi, affectionately named Betty Boop. Their adventures included exploring the vast landscapes of Nevada, marveling at the majestic redwoods, and driving up and down the West Coast. Dennis, always fond of speed, particularly enjoyed driving through the open deserts, relishing the thrill of the journey with Belinda by his side.

Dennis was an avid guitar player and had a lifelong passion for music. He wrote a song titled "Hard Time Living in Paradise," which became a favorite among friends and family. He passed on his musical talent and love for the guitar to his daughter Denise and granddaughter Allorah.

In his later years, Dennis lived in Bellingham, Washington, with Belinda. He is survived by his loving wife, Belinda; his children: Erin, DeEtta, Killian, Jacqueline and Denise, his grandchildren David, Brendan, Max, Allorah, Selena, Kyanah, Isaiah, Elijah, Quinn, Leonah Frances, Austin, Ella Mae, Jamie and his great granddaughter Kahlani. He is also survived by his two sisters, Eileen and Kathleen. Dennis was particularly grateful for reconnecting with his daughter Julie a few years ago, an event that brought much joy to his life.

Dennis will be remembered for his award-winning smile, love of storytelling, and the advice he generously shared. His adventurous spirit and loving nature will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

A celebration of Dennis's life will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Sandy Beach, Petersburg Alaska.