Charles Theodore (Ted) Raffuse

Charles Theodore (Ted) Raffuse passed away peacefully at his home in Ledyard, CT on September 29, surrounded by his family. Ted was born in Hartford on December 13, 1941. He grew up in Old Saybrook, CT, however he also previously lived in Rhode Island and Florida.

Ted worked in construction all his life, finishing up his career with A/Z Corp. After his retirement he went to work for Curtain Livery.

Ted loved traveling in his motor home with his wife, Gerry and their beloved dogs, Darla and Mia. They enjoyed trips to Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine, Florida, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Mexico. He also just loved camping locally and having family and friends visit and sit by the campfire.

Ted loved to have a good time. He looked forward to entering many of his homemade rafts into the annual CT River Raft Race, which always had a keg or two onboard for the trip down the CT River. He gathered all his friends and family to join him onboard.

Ted had a boat most of his life and spent a lot of time on the CT River whether it be out fishing or just a relaxing day on the water. During the winter, as a child he would often walk across the frozen river from Old Saybrook to Old Lyme. He also loved crabbing with his daughter, Cheryl. He also went Scalloping in the Niantic Bay.

Ted was always the first one to help anyone in need of anything, but never one to ask for help for himself. Ted was a private person and not one to show his emotions, but if you knew him, he was a big “ Teddy Bear “.

Ted was predeceased by his son, Charles T. Raffuse III(Chuck) of New Haven, his daughter, Cheryl Briggs of Croydon, New Hampshire, brother in law Bill of Old Saybrook, whom he always enjoyed a nice cold beer with and a sister, Gail.

Ted is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Gerry and his children. Douglas (Senona) Raffuse of Oakdale, CT , Gregory (Debbie) Raffuse of Newport ,New Hampshire, Terri (Greg) Ensulo of East Lyme, CT, Jennifer (Tim) Reynolds of Haddam, CT and Stephen (Hannah) Raffuse of East Hampton, CT. He also has many grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Sister Patricia(Pat) of Old Saybrook and sister Judy of Florida.

A private memorial service for family will be held at a later date.