I have not seen Kate for a very long time, but we stayed in touch through social media once we found one another. 

Whenever I think of her, the most predominant things are laughter and smiling. She was always happy and upbeat, always. Her optimism and smile were infectious, even when faced with difficult situations. 

I worked with her at Victoria's Secret a very long time ago. I always scheduled her to work on my shifts because:
A) She was a hard worker and so loyal to me as her manager. When others would let me down she would always come help me out. It wasn't the greatest of jobs in that dying mall but whatever task she was given she gave 100% and then some. 
B) She made the time go by much faster because we spent our days laughing and cracking jokes. She was smart, so witty and I adored her for it. She always had me in stitches.

I will always remember her this way no matter what. My life is better to have had her in it, I was so happy to reconnect with her and see how well she had done for herself. She was such an intelligent, bright and beautiful girl - inside and out. 

My heart truly aches about what she's had to endure and what she's been through. My prayers go out to the Rafferty's and to both of Kate's children. I hope it offers you the smallest bit of consolation to know how much she was loved and by so many.  The world is definitely darker place without her in it.

Cheers to you Katie and I hope your beautiful soul is in a better place and at peace.



I remember sweet Katie when she was in grade school, always shining, smiling. We knew her family well and have missed them. God bless you all. Prayers are going up from Shepherd for all of you. 

I am so sorry to hear of this tragedy. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Kates children, as well as the rest of her family. God Bless❤️

My heart goes out to all of the Rafferty clan at this very sad time.    I only hope that cherished memories of her vivacious spirit will somehow give you comfort.  

When I think of Kate (Rafferty) Petrocco, I am reminded of brilliance.  A brilliant and radiant smile and a brilliant mind of a woman whose life was far too short.  
I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Katie Rafferty when she came in search of a major that would suit her distinct career goals!  It didn’t hurt that Eileen, her mom, was by her side encouraging her to investigate our events division in the hospitality department at Metropolitan State University of Denver.  I was never sure that Kate came into the office eagerly, but she was there and her questions about the course work had clarity of thought behind them!  It amazed me just how bright she was for such a young person changing universities.  I can say, as her professor, she was a pleasure to teach and was never without a question, a thought on process or concept, and her occasional challenges delighted me!  In keeping with Kate’s love of family, her education even included guest lectures by her dad Gerry in the hospitality law class!
Katie was always inclusive in her efforts as President of our student club or traveling to Europe to study with other MSU Denver hospitality students. Always the coordinator of activities at home and abroad! She was the consummate event planner and fundraiser and I was happy to see her carry this passion into her volunteering and mothering rolls.  She always made me proud to call her a graduate of our program and later-on my friend. 
My husband Peter and I extend our heartfelt sympathy to the Rafferty Family.  
In loving memory of Kate, 
Cynthia Vannucci and Peter Henkel


My treasured memories of Katie are many! As I think of a few with a huge smile on my face and laughter in my heart and soul, is how I feel thinking of sweet Angelic Katie! My favorite memory is when Katie began working I believe in High School at Victoria Secret at Southglenn mall. She told me Rafferty was not crazy about her new part time job! As I myself was shopped at VS Katie asked me to please tell Rafferty it is OK for her to work there since Mrs. Mullervy often frequented VS! I laughed and said if course Katie anything for you! I can remember just passing VS in the mall seeing Katie with her Stupendous smile meeting and greeting customers, with her Immeasurable Social skills she would shout “Hello Mrs.Mullervy enjoyed a beautiful day!” She was a magnet to everyone around her! I know how my life was enriched just by having  by knowing your extraordinary KATIE!!! God may her sweet soul be Rest and Peace!

There are no words. I think of Katie as a smile. I think of the entire Rafferty family as ambassadors of kindness and joy. I think hearts are aching everywhere for this uniquely gifted and deeply loved young mother. 
Again, there are no words to truly express our sorrow for the Rafferty family. 
In Christ’s love and ours,
Bruce and Cy DeBoer

I'm so sorry for your loss, and I know that's just not enough. It's frustrating to see a wonderful person taken too soon and not to have been in a position to help. Instead I'm reduced to offering condolences. You folks don't know me, and I didn't know Kathleen. I'm just a retired policeman who still remembers the frustration of sensing that there's something wrong, yet not being allowed to do anything. I pray that Kathleen truly is in the better place we all hope awaits us, but it all rings hollow when her time among the folks that love her is cut so short. Please, take care, and know she will be forever in your hearts.

I met Kate right after Sophia and Dominic were born. They were my neighbors before they moved. I remember going over to the house to spend time with her and the kids ❤️ We would go shopping, play hide and seek, and cook. Watching the kids grow up was such fun and I am blessed that they and Kate have been a part of my life. It is so sad to know that she is gone for us. The memories shared are unforgettable. Kate was truly a blessing to have as a friend and a role model. 

We lived next door to the Rafferty’s! The day we moved in, Eileen and Katie, Moria came over with flowers to great us. I remember the kids, Katie, Moria, Danny, and my kids Ryan and Chelby played night games. Katie was the “Mother Hen”. Watching over the younger kids.

 We missed you once you moved out of the house. You’re smile so big and beautiful! We will miss you dear sweet Katie!
Love, the Cooper’s. Jeff and Kristi

I remember when we first met when you and Ali came to Gettysburg for Mo’s 21st. I thought it was so cool that Mo’s big sister was there and taking us out on the town. I’ll never forget it! And all the memories we had after that too. My heart is so broken at the thought of you not being here with us anymore. If I know you though, your presence as a guardian angel will be felt constantly. Love you always, Katie.

Everyone at the Epilepsy Foundation of Colorado is heartbroken to hear of Kate's passing. We will miss her beautiful smile, her generous spirit, and her passionate dedication to making a difference in the lives of people affected by epilepsy. We send our most sincere condolences to her family and loved ones.

Beautiful message. Katie was an amazing woman. She was kind, loving, attentive and would definitely turn heads when she entered the room. You will be missed. Love, Joe and Jodi


What a wonderful mother you were to your beautiful twins. Saddened to see your life cut so short.

Truly one of the most amazing women I have had the privilege to call a friend.

I am so devastated to hear about Kate.. She was an amazing woman! ❤ Praying for you all. I am so so sorry. Sophia M & I will miss you. ❤

Special in so many ways. We will miss you Kate!
Love Peter and Brenda Plowshay


My heart aches, I struggle to understand how such a person has been taken by the lord this young in life  ...and His purpose may not be for any of us to know. This loss will forever be in our hearts. Our sympathy and condolences are expressed to the friends and family of  Kate, a breath of fresh air, a friend for life, and an honor to have known. 

Sometimes, if you are extremely lucky, you meet the Sister of your Spirit.  Kate, I thank you for that gift.  
The love you have for all four of your children, and your willingness to share that love and pride, without reservation, was a gift to all of us.  
Your compassion for the victims, for your staff, and all those around you was the safe harbor for those tossed about by the sea of life.
Your playful spirit kept me in touch with that playful fairy in myself, and with our Irish roots.
I so deeply appreciated the courage and humor you demonstrated when the Attack Moth took over your office.  After it was captured, you insisted on naming the moth “Clementine “and escorting “Clementine” and me to release her back to the wild.
I will wear the nickname you gave me, (even though I tried to get you to stop calling me that), with pride and to honor the Celtic Warrior Spirit you modeled to us to keep fighting the good fight, with humor, compassion, and the soft mommy voice you used to bring folks down from the ceiling.  
I miss you my friend.
Go dtí go bhfeicim thú ar an taobh eile.   
Until I see you on the other side.
Sarge


Kate, my beautiful friend inside and out, I was blessed with so many moments of laughter with you, Kristy and Jamie that it would be hard to pick my favorite.  My heart is broken right now but will fill it with memories of us and our many adventures.  I asked God to surround your family with love and strength and help all of us deal with such a great loss.  I miss you my friend and thank God for putting you in my life. 

No words can describe how sorry we are for your loss.  Our hearts are broken, Katie will never be forgotten. May you be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding you.

Dennis and Sara Harper

OBITUARY

Kathleen Theresa (Rafferty) Petrocco

16 November, 1982 – 14 July, 2019

Olinger Funeral, Cremation & Cemetery - Chapel Hill

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