I think of all the days you mentored me at band practice Jimmy. My first band practice attended P/M John MacDonald was not present that day. I was sitting alone like a lost 14 year old would his first night out. At break Jimmy came over to my table and started helping me with what seemed like a multitude of music. Pipe Sgt Raffan after the practice had finished again came over to my table and sat with me practicing one on one until everyone was long gone except for my ride home by Lead Drummer Andy Lang. Andy waited so patiently knowing Jimmy was helping this young piper with such a valuable teaching experience I was so lucky to get from such an experienced and ever humbling teacher. I will always remember you Jimmy, from that night you always were there to help a young piper out. My families thoughts and prayers go out to my mentor Pipe Sgt James Raffan and his family at this very sad time. 
Scott Morton and Family

Dear Lisa and Alex and famiy, We were very sorry to hear of your father's passing and will certainly miss his pressence at the 48th functions. He always had such a big smiling face to greet everyone. Retired Sgt. Patrick Mulvenna and Patricia. (Durham, ON.)

Dear Lisa and Alex.  We were so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad.  Our condolences and heartfelt wishes go out to all today.  I always remembered when I was little, I liked listening to your dad practicing either in the basement or outside with his bagpipes.  Loved the sound.  There was always an extra touch especially if the Royalty were going to be present.  Again our thoughts are with from the Parish Clan.  Vernon, Joan, Ed, Jackie and Ted  and Rosemary (Parish) Goodwin. Bancroft, Ontario.

Lisa,our sincere condolences on the loss of your Dad,unfortunately Ken Wells is on his way home from Florida and will be sad to learn of the loss of his good friend of many years who he spoke fondly of, our thoughts are with your family at this time.
Sincerely
Ken Wells, Ken Wells Jr.& Sandy Wells

 Lisa, "It is always difficult to lose your dad, no matter what your age." No one can prepare you for a loss; it comes like a swift wind. But take comfort in knowing that he is now resting in the arms of God. When we lose a loved one here on earth, we gain an angel in heaven that watches over us. May you and Alex take comfort in knowing that you have an angel to watch over you now (you have a few angels up there now :) )
May happy memories of your father comfort you now. The few times I met him, he made such an impression, strong, intelligent, sincere, warm human being.
I know how important he was in your life and your care and support during these last few months (and years) must have brought him great comfort. Your relationship was quite special and while this makes the loss so very painful, I do believe that your closeness and warm memories will bring you comfort. Know that I am thinking of you and Alex. I will always be here for you. Luv you both very much. 
Tanya

My husband and I were lucky enough to have my  great uncle Jim pipe us out of the church at our wedding. It made for a memorable  high light to our day!  I have very  fond memories of him at Stoney Lake and I know he's in heaven having a "libation" with my Dad, Carl!             .

A sad day for all who knew Jimmie and admired his music.
He was a fine soldier, a true friend - who served his country and our Regiment long and well.

 It seems especially sad for me - Jimmy is the last of the Wartime 48th Bandsmen that I was close to and knew well -

Piper Bobby Blythe, (KIA), Base Drummer ‘Big' Bill Thompson )KIA), Piper Jock Stephens - and now Piper Jimmy Raffan; fine men all -who will never be ‘really' gone - so long as we remember them! 

Dileas gu Brath  -  Ted Brock

I will always consider it an honour to have known Jim. He was a wonderful person who was quiet in nature but with such a great personality. I will miss hearing him playing the Pipes in Caledonia Lodge. 
Brian Black

With Jimmy Raffan's passing we in the 48th Highlanders and the Pipes and Drums in particular come to the end of an era.
Where can we now go with our questions? 
It is truly too bad that Jimmy did not write a book about his memoirs. However this was not Jimmy's way.
When I first joined the Band I was a very young man. Jimmy along with others were my mentors. They were the people that I looked up to and admired.
I was very lucky as my Dad played in the band. When we went on a trip to Toronto's East End we always made a visit to Watty Raffin Jimmy's Dad.
I consider myself lucky to have known both wonderful men who were so much alike.
I will personally miss Jimmy. As I said a great guy; a fine piper; a true Highlander, a brother; a gentleman. 
RIP Jimmy Raffan.

OBITUARY

James Geddes Raffan

June 5, 1921 – March 28, 2014

Jerrett Funeral Homes - Scarborough Chapel

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