William "Bill" Raftovich, age 80, of Ocean View, DE formerly of Boothwyn, PA passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Friday, March 1, 2024 in the comfort of his home.

Bill was born in Chester, PA on February 16, 1944 son of the late William Vincent Raftovich and Marie Cecilia (Harrington) Raftovich. Following high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Army. Bill went on to enjoy a successful career with BP Oil in Trainer, PA as a refinery operator and supervisor, retiring in 1996 after 23 years.

Bill's vibrant personality could light up any room. He was known for his dry sense of humor and had a gift for making people laugh. Bill enjoyed connecting with people through his various hobbies and overall love of the Delaware beach life. He especially enjoyed fishing, crabbing, boating, and yard-saling (many were recipients of his treasure hunts, whether they wanted to be or not). He was a skillful mechanic who could fix almost anything and will be remembered by some locals as the "Mower Man". When he wasn't around town in his yellow Jeep, he could be found in his infamous garage where stories were shared, jokes were told, and connections with family and friends were deepened. Bill's presence will undoubtedly be missed.

Bill was a member of the Lord Baltimore Lions in Ocean View, DE, the Mason Dixon VFW Post #7234 in Ocean View and the American Legion Post #24 in Dagsboro, DE.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Lynn Louise (Hawk) Raftovich; three children, Kimberly Coughenour (David), Susan Gorman (Thomas) and Daniel Raftovich (Traci) and 7 grandchildren, Austin, Dillon, Emma, Max, Shane, Callie and Cassidy. Bill is also survived by a sister, Arlene DiPiazza (Joseph) and two brothers, James Raftovich (Peggy) and Kevin Raftovich.

A service will be held at 11 AM on Friday, April 19, 2024 at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, DE 19966. Afterwards, all are invited to attend a celebration of Bill's life between 12-4 PM at the Mason Dixon VFW Post #7234 in Ocean View, DE.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Bill's name to the Lord Baltimore Lions Club, PO Box 525, Ocean View, DE 19970.