Obituaries

Jay M. Raffel of Madison, WI died Sunday, April 7, 2024 due to heart complications. He was born to Marilyn T. Raffel (Statz) and John E. Raffel on March 23rd, 1960 in Madison, WI.

Jay was a U.S. Army Veteran and graduated from Madison East High School in 1981. He also attended the University of Arizona Forestry Program. Jay was an avid fisherman and enjoyed the outdoors. He spent many years as a sous chef at many different establishments in Wisconsin. Jay also took pride in growing his hair out and donating it to Locks of Love every year.

Jay is survived by his seven siblings, Jill (Mike) Lehmann of Trego, WI; John (Theresa) Raffel of Raytown, MO; Joe Raffel of Madison, WI; Jim Raffel of Madison, WI; Jerry (Teresa) Raffel of Middleton, WI; Jeff (Gina Krueger) Raffel of Trego, WI; and Jason (Chris) Raffel of Cottage Grove, WI; nieces and nephews Nathan Lehmann, Zachary Lehmann, Adam Raffel, Tony Raffel, Patrick Raffel, Peter Raffel, Jake Raffel, Darby Raffel, Travis Raffel, Logan Raffel, Jerak Raffel, Jennah Raffel, Justin Raffel, Madelyn Raffel, and Joshua Raffel. Jay was preceded in death by his father, John E. Raffel, and his dog, Rosie, whom he loved dearly.

Jay lived a complicated life but had a good heart. Let us all remember that there is dignity in the struggle of being human.

At this time the family has decided not to hold a formal funeral service. We invite you to celebrate Jay’s life in your own ways and hold him with you in spirit.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services