Louis Garry Raffenberg

Louis Garry Raffenberg, affectionately known as “Sweet Lou”, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025 after a brief illness. At the time of his passing he was surrounded by family members and the legacy of a life well lived. Born on March 12th, 1936, in Ludlow Kentucky Garry was a man of unwavering faith, boundless energy, and a heart that beat strongest for his family.

A Purcell High School Cavalier and proud graduate of the University of Cincinnati, Garry spent his life working hard to provide for those he loved most. He was social, spirited, and always ready to go to lunch with friends. His faith was his foundation and up until his passing served many years as an usher at The Community of the Good Shepherd Church. Additionally he volunteered as tutor for students at St. Francis Seraph. Garry could be found coaching and attending family sporting events, enjoyed raising his Ohio State flag each game day weekend, singing in church with gusto, and playing in his monthly poker game for over 50 years.

Garry was preceded in death by his cherished first wife, Marilyn (nee Whistler) , mother of his four beloved sons. He is survived by sons Mark and wife Kathy, David and wife Bridgett, Jeff and wife Jenny, and Matt and wife Ann, and their families. He was blessed with 11 grandchildren Craig, Ian, and Erin (Mark), Matthew and Kelly and her husband Ricky (David), Chad, Mitchell, and Jay (Jeff), and Thomas, Andrew, and Joseph (Matt) and 2 great-grandchildren Will and Nora (Kelly), all a shining testament to the joy and pride he found in each of them. He was devoted to his second wife Carolyn (nee Hubbard / Kusel) and her daughter Melissa (Kyle) and their 3 children whom are also left behind with his passing.

Though he has gone home, Garry’s big heart and caring for others, ability to never meet a stranger, and his nickname “Sweet Lou” will live on in all who knew him. We love you dad!

Visitation will be held at The Community of the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 8815 East Kemper Rd. Montgomery 45249 on Saturday, May 17 from 8:45am until Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Catholic Inner-City Schools Education Fund (CISE), supporting St. Francis Seraph Church, continuing Garry’s legacy of faith and service.

https://www.sfsschool.com/volunteer    CISE 100 East Eighth Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202   513-263-3471

Condolences at hodappfuneralhome.com