Joseph Robert Raftovich

After 32 30th birthdays, Joseph Robert Raftovich, of Kent, OH, left this physical plane on Tuesday, August 22, 2023.

Joseph was born 27 July 1961 in Chester, PA to the late Robert and Rose (Torrieri) Raftovich. 
As a father, friend, and leader, Joseph made an immense impact on all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A storyteller extraordinaire, self-appointed rambler, and hero, he led a rich, immeasurable life. 

Joseph impressed fans and superiors from the start - playing the trumpet in high school marching band, as an Electronics Technician in the US Navy on aircraft carrier USS Inchon, and as a Telecommunications Engineer for over 30 years. Joseph was celebrated at Kent State University this May for 20 outstanding years of service as a Lead Design Network Engineer. He was deeply loved and revered by his team and colleagues.

Joseph was an avid traveler and visited many countries in his lifetime throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. In the summer, Joseph enjoyed many of his favorite activities. Riding his motorcycle, grill master at family barbecues, and beaching on the annual Cape May vacation, Joseph could always be found smiling ear to ear.

Above all, Joseph loved his family and had a special way with children which made him beloved by his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. 

Joseph is survived by his four children; Monica Salm, Tara Raftovich, Matthew Raftovich, and Brandon (Katherine) Raftovich. He taught them tools of life through stories and lessons which will forever be etched on their hearts. Joseph was truly a father to many more than his own and will be remembered as a father to his “adopted” son Trinity (Karly) Caver.

He joins his parents, Robert and Rose (Torrieri) Raftovich, his sister Christina Raftovich Beaudoin, niece Rebekah Anna Raftovich, and grandson Elijah Kade Raftovich who raced him to heaven.

Calling hours will be held 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 W. Main St., Kent, OH 44240, followed by Military Honors, Funeral Services at 3:00 PM. Cremation will follow at Bissler & Sons Crematory. Memorials may be made to Project NICU and Bikers for Boobs. To share a Memory, Send a Condolence, Light a Candle or Send Flowers, visit the Tribute Wall at www.bisslerandsons.com.