Obituary of Renate E. Wrafter

Renate Elizabeth Wrafter, 89, of Clifton Park, NY died after a brief illness at her home on March 16, 2023.  Renate was born in Germany on September 10, 1933.  Her early life was challenging due to the devastation of WWII which resulted in the relocation of her family.  With great perseverance Renate completed a college degree and was employed as a teacher near her home in East Germany.  She later made the difficult decision to leave her family crossing the “Iron Curtain'' to seek a better life in the West. 

She found employment in West Germany as a governess where she met her future husband, Norman Wrafter who was serving in the US Air Force.  In 1957, she emigrated to America, marrying Norman in Albany, NY.  She was employed for over 30 years at the New York State Dept. of Transportation and retired in 1995. 

Renate enjoyed her retirement years with travel, gardening, playing cards, and quilting at which she excelled.  Her beautiful quilts won several awards.  Of course, her favorite times were sharing holidays and special moments with her family and friends, all of whom she cherished.

Renate was predeceased by husband Norman; her parents Bruno and Charlotte (Galley) Dauber, and brother Günter.  She is survived by her loving daughters Renate M. Goude (Kevin); Patricia M. Giulianelli (David); Cathleen E. Smith (Leon); grandchildren: Ryan, Sean, Valerie, Andrea, Kathryn, Natalie; 9 great-grandchildren; as well as a beloved brother Hans-Joachim Dauber, sister-in-law Irmtraud Dauber and nieces and nephews in Germany. 

Renate was a communicant of St. Mary’s Church in Halfmoon and will be remembered for her strength, creativity and love for her community, family and friends.  She will be greatly missed.

Memorial services to be announced. 

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the American Lung Association, or the Community Hospice Foundation.

Our Mom's last days were filled with tenderness and many cherished moments. We would like to thank her wonderful friends and neighbors for bringing her so much happiness and the amazing hospice team that helped us navigate our Mom's care with grace and compassion.  To be surrounded by so much love is truly life's greatest gift!  Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts

Renie, Patty and Cathy