1957 ~ 2024
GRAWN – Robbin JoAnne Raphael, 66, of Grawn, passed away on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
Robbin was born on December 15, 1957, in Northport, Michigan, to Carl Raphael and Julia Mashka. Known in her Anishnaabe community as Ozaawa-Anango Ikwe-ba, meaning “Yellow Star Woman,” Robbin was a proud, fierce spirit who lived life boldly.
A woman of deep connection to nature, Robbin found joy in outdoor adventures, walking trails, and rock hunting. She shared her love for nature with her children, instilling in them a respect for the earth and its beauty. She had a unique ability to repurpose and preserve—never one to let anything go to waste. Robbin also loved animals, and her kind spirit extended to all creatures. In her downtime, she enjoyed trips to the casino, where she was always up for a game of bingo or slots. In her earlier years, Robbin’s strong work ethic saw her laboring on various projects, including helping to build the Radisson Hotel in Grand Rapids, and working as a bricklayer—never afraid to roll up her sleeves. She was known for her willingness to help, often being the last to leave family events after ensuring everything was cleaned up. Robbin was also the proudest, loudest supporter at her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events, cheering them on with unmatched enthusiasm. Her strength and fearlessness remained with her until her final moments.
Robbin is survived by her beloved children: Richard “Rick” Raphael, Michael F. Raphael, Andrew L. (Valarie) Raphael, Simone C. (Randy Miller) Raphael, Summer R. Raphael, and Christina A. Sawmick. She also leaves behind her siblings Clayton “Duke” Raphael, Rosemary Hawley-Raphael, and Paul J. (Tanya Sue) Raphael; her cherished grandchildren, Kane (Ladia) Raphael, Raevin Raphael, Aivree Raphael, Izreil Raphael, Caleb Bailey, Destiny Shananaquet, Alicia, Andee, Aiden, Kenya, Bianca, Arieh, Nevaeh, Milani, and Matteo Raphael, Christopher and Christina Benz, and Nicole Hunt; and her greatgrandchildren, Fox and Sandra Raphael, Chance and Cameron Hart, Dominic Shananaquet, Joseph Espinosa, and Merci Gibbs. Robbin also held a special place in her heart for her friend Debra Fox, and for her many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her life partner, Gregory J. Sawmick; her parents, Carl and Julia; her siblings Carl, Wanda, Deborah, Peggy Rocha, and Duane; and her daughter Julia Raphael.
Visitation was held at Robbin’s home until the graveside service and burial at St. Kateri Tekakawitha Cemetery on Friday, November 15th in Peshawbestown.
Please share condolences with the family at www.martinson.info.
Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.
