Claire M. Rafuse

WESTMINSTER - Claire M. (Contois) Rafuse, 88, of 83 Sargent Road, died peacefully Thursday afternoon, September 20, 2018 at her home, with her family at her side.

She was born in Leominster on July 7, 1930, daughter of the late Albert R. and Irene A. (Bashaw) Contois and grew up in Leominster.  A resident of Winchendon for many years, Claire had lived in Westminster since 1988.

After raising her seven children, Claire worked later in life at the former Rich's Department Store for 13 years and managed its service desk.  She had also managed the former Pop's Dog House.

Claire was predeceased by her two husbands, Edmund "Pop" LaFortune who died in 1981 and Neil B. Rafuse, who died in 2012.  She leaves six children, David LaFortune of Asheville, NY, Edmund LaFortune of Winchendon, Donna Fortin of Winchendon, Susan Foley of Westminster, Paul LaFortune of Georgia and Peter LaFortune of England; one brother, Earle Contois of Fitchburg and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.  A daughter, Kim Paine; a granddaughter, Jennifer LeClair and a brother, Richard Contois,  predeceased her.

Funeral services will be private and at the family's convenience.

Memorial donations may be made to National Kidney Foundation,  209 W Central St, Natick, MA 01760.

Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon is directing arrangements.

www.stone-ladeau.com