Bob Raffo Sr.
Born in Flushing, New York, Bob Raffo was the youngest of four children to Edward J. Raffo and Elizabeth C. (Neafsey) Raffo. Bob was an avid golfer, woodworker, successful business owner and inventor of the SAND-FLEE®, Portable Drum Sander. Bob is survived by his wife Beth and four children, Bob, Stephen, Missy, and Angelina as well as his twin sister Elizabeth Kab.
In his youth, Bob was an accomplished athlete and aspiring baseball player. In August 1954 he received an invitation to try out for the New York Yankees. Throughout his life he enjoyed competitive golf, having achieved a hole-in-one twice.
Bob’s contribution to the textile industry started at Templon Yarns in the early 60’s and soon after joined Dixie Yarns to lead the innovative development of cotton and polyester blended fabrics. His passion for creation led to him owning and operating his own knitting mills in the 70’s. He not only led the expansion and adoption of brushed terry cloth fabrics, but also pioneered the use of metallic yarns in women’s novelty fashion and was an early adopter of double knit fabric production. His sewing plants served as contracted job shops for Ralph Lauren and many of the industry leaders. Additionally Bob won bids to manufacture uniforms for many federal and state agencies. Bob was also instrumental in the successful launch of workforce improvement programs for New Jersey correctional facilities
During retirement Bob blended his passion for woodworking and innovation. He was an enthusiastic shaker box maker and enjoyed exploring ways to solve problems in his wood shop. The SAND-FLEE® Portable Drum Sander was an outcome of his commitment to deliver the ultimate sanding solution to the woodworking community. His relationship with Klingspor Woodworking Shops and Klingspor Abrasives allowed him to introduce the SAND-FLEE® to a global market. The SAND-FLEE® has been sold by SEARS, and many other leading retail outlets. Distribution included North America, South America, Europe, and Australia.
Most important to Bob was his family. He is survived by seven grandchildren (Elizabeth, Rebecca, Jessica, Gunnar, Brittney, Zachary, and Gavin) and they were the center of his world. He will be missed by many, who have been touched by his generosity and love.
In his memory donations are asked to be sent to:
Knights of Columbus - Council 8733
520 Medford Lakes Rd, Tabernacle, NJ 08088
Where Bob was a member and 3rd Degree Knight
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