RAFUSE

It is with profound sadness that the family of Mildred Irene Rafuse, Shoreham Village, Chester and formerly of Martin’s River, N.S., announce her passing on September 7, 2025, at Shoreham Village.
 

Born in West LaHave, she was a daughter of the late Moore and Doris Richard. Mildred is survived by her sons, Dale (Catherine) West LaHave, and Kenneth, Martin’s River; grandchildren Alexander (Valerie) Dayspring, Gregory (Kathleen) Halifax, Emily, Martins River, and daughter in law, Lynette, Martin’s River. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 66 years, Maynard (July 15, 2025), her youngest son, Robert, brothers Walter and Murray, and sister Judith.

Mildred was an avid volunteer in her community. She was a devoted member of the St. Martin’s Anglican Church, the Martin’s River Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, and a long-time fundraiser for many charities. She loved to play the guitar and sing her favorite country music with her close friends and was a huge Elvis Presley fan. One of the highlights of her life was travelling with her sister Judith, to visit Elvis’s home in Graceland. She loved to sew, making many place mats and Christmas tree skirts, which are still in use by many on the South Shore. She was a dear friend of many, and when someone was sick or in need for anything she was there.

Mildred and Maynard loved to go camping, with three young boys in tow, to campgrounds all over the province. As the boys grew up and moved out, they parked their trailer on a lot in Sunnybrook, where they were a fixture for many years. Mildred and Maynard worked together; he ran his carpentry business, and she did the books. They enjoyed spending time with their friends, on fishing, boating and camping trips, and with their family over many dinners and swimming with her grandchildren. She will be greatly missed.

Mildred spent the last 5 years as a resident of North Queens and Shoreham Village Nursing Homes. The family would like to extend their great appreciation to the entire staff of both homes, for their unwavering care and compassion during this extended difficult time.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Dana L Sweeny Funeral Home, 11213, Hwy 3, Lunenburg. Cremation has taken place. Memorial donations can be made to the Martin’s River Volunteer Fire Department. A graveside service and a Celebration of Life for both Mildred and Maynard will be held on Saturday, September 20, at 11:00 am at the Saint Martin’s Anglican Cemetery, 7548, Hwy 3, in Martin’s River.