Earl F. Rafferty

Earl Francis Rafferty aka Earl the Pearl or El Gato age 90 of Venice, FL passed away on August 28, 2024. Earl was born on September 12, 1933, in Detroit, MI to Leroy and Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Rafferty. Earl was a Veteran serving in the USMC during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal. Earl owned and operated Rafferty’s Motor Mall (including Pontiac, Buick, GMC, Dodge, Chrysler, and Plymouth brands) in Niles, MI until his retirement. Earl was a previous member of the Elks, Rotary and Moose. He was a current member of the local VFW and American Legion. He had also been active in several churches, golf leagues, and Boy Scouts of America. Earl was also a Champion Judoka awarded a black belt by Kodokan Judo and was the Michigan State AAU Judo Champion in 1967 and 1969.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife Nancy Rafferty; sons Kevin (Missy) Rafferty of Lehigh Acres, FL, Brian (Andrea) Rafferty of East Lansing, MI, and Shawn (Vicki) Rafferty of Atlanta, GA; grandchildren Tim Rafferty, Steve Rafferty, Max Rafferty, Jack Rafferty, and Anna Rafferty; cousin Dr. Ed (Brenda) Carlson.  Earl was loved and will be missed by Nancy's children Tamara (Troy) Broad and Michael (Michelle) Jankowski.

Earl is preceded in death by his late wife Lorraine Rafferty; his parents; his brother and fellow Marine Fred Rafferty; his cousin and fellow Marine Edward Rafferty, and aunt Dorothy Carlson.  

A memorial service will be held at Farley Funeral Home – Venice on September 12, 2024, at 11:30 am with visitation starting at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at 1:30 pm at Sarasota National Cemetery in Sarasota, FL. Donations in his name may be made in lieu of flowers to Shriners Hospitals or Towers to Tunnels.