John Francis Raftery

CHELMSFORD - John Francis Raftery, Jr., 56, a resident of Lowell, died unexpectedly Sunday, May 8th at his home.
He was born in Needham on May 19, 1954, and was a son of the late John F. and Margaret M. (Frazier) Raftery. He received his education in Chelmsford schools and was a graduate of Chelmsford High School, class of 1972. John was employed for eight years by Thermo Fisher Scientific in Wilmington.
He served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War.
John was an active member and past commander of the Tyngsboro American Legion, Robert D. Pelletier Post 247. He was also active in other local American Legion Posts.
He is survived by his fianc, Sue Strunk of Lowell, two brothers, Kevin Raftery and his wife Donna of Boxborough and Brian Raftery and his wife Davina of Nashua, NH; a sister, Lynn Raftery of Maynard; four nieces, Jacquelyn and Jennifer Raftery of Boxborough and Danielle and Michaela Raftery of Nashua, NH; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends. He was also the brother of the late Timothy Raftery.
Visitation will be held at the BLAKE FUNERAL HOME, 24 Worthen Street, CHELMSFORD, on Saturday from 10 until 12 P.M. With a celebration of his life at 12 PM. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675-8517, www.woundedwarriorproject.org.