“When you sing, you pray twice” – St. Augustine. There was never a question where Hank’s priorities were. He was blessed with a song in his heart, and was always looking to share it. Whether with the Cinnaminson Community Chorus, the Bereavement Choir at St. Peter’s or simply sitting around a camp fire he always knew the right tune for the occasion. With a tireless work ethic, he provided for his 11 children, and was always happy to provide a second home to their friends. But he loved his career as a metallurgical engineer, and it fueled his adventurous spirit. When the job gave him a chance to move his family to England, and later to Brazil he jumped at the opportunity. But no matter where he went, he always took with him his deep sense of faith. Always a devout Catholic, the church was always central to his existence.rnHis love of education led him to Drexel University in the late 1940s. But his first day there he received an education he wasn’t expecting. He met Theresa (nee Finley), and even before he had his diploma in hand, he had her hand in marriage and two children. Their 61 year marriage was blessed, many times, by their 11 children: Roger (Nicki) of Cinnaminson, Dennis (Regina) of Palmyra, June of Delran, Kathy of Delran, Patricia of Weehawken, Sue of Nutley, Mark of Riverside, Denise Eizadkhah (Ali) of Bridgewater, Colin (Julie) of VA, David (Theresa) of Philadelphia and Robyn Kaminer (Mark) of Medford, and again by their 18 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Rita Sanasac.rnCome celebrate a life filled with song (7/21/1925 – 4/7/2010) Friday 6-8 PM and Saturday 9:30 – 10:30 AM at the Sweeney Funeral Home, Riverside. Mass of Christian Burial Saturday 11 AM at St. Peter’s Church, Riverside. Interment St. Peter’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be made to the Covenant House 510 Plaza, Third Floor NY, NY 10001 or the YMCA Camp T Frank Soles 134 Camp Soles Lane, Rockwood, PA 15557. rn
7 Comments
We are truly sorry and saddened by Hank’s passing. So many fond memories – too many to list. He brought laughter and sunshine with him everywhere he went. rnrnOur condolenses go out to the Raufer Family.
Boy could he sign and tell jokes, always upbeat and a loyal friend and co-worker – what else can anyone say?
Dave & Family,nnSo sorry to hear about your dad’s passing. He was a wonderful man who brought up a beautiful, loving family. You and your children (and your brothers/sisters and their families) are his living legacy.nnDeepest sympathy to you and yours.nnDenise, Christopher, Connor & Chloe Krieger
Sue,rnrnI am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. rnrnLubna
No words could begin to capture the depth of a great man, wonderful father and exceptional grandfather. Although I am just a friend, I feel blessed to be a part of the extended Raufer family…for when you are with them, you are truly part of the family. With Hank at the helm you always got a kind word, encouraging story or just a good laugh. You will be deeply missed!
Raufer Family,rnrnOur thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. We are very sorry for your loss.rnRich & Jeanette
Raufer Family, I am so sorry for your loss. My heart and prayers are with you. I only met Hank once, but that was enough to tell he was an amazing person! It was so great to watch him dance at Jessica and John Paul’s wedding. Such a sparkle in his eyes!