Chesapeake—Bevalan Cohen Rafal, 83, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 15, 2012 surrounded by her loving family.
Born in the Berkley section of Norfolk, she was the daughter of the late Ben and Anna Cohen.
She was a founding member of Temple Israel in Norfolk, and was recently a member of B’nai Israel in St. Petersburg, Fla. She volunteered at Menorah Manor Nursing Home in St. Petersburg. She and her husband owned and operated Mr. Dog Restaurants in downtown Norfolk for many years. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
She was predeceased by her husband of 56 years, Mischa Rafal.
She is survived by her four children, Lynn Kushner and husband Bruce of Chesapeake, Jerry Rafal and wife Kathy of Hertford, N.C., Marc Rafal and wife Anne of Austin, Texas., and Stephanie Levin and husband Ron of Troy, Mich.; her 11 grandchildren, Robyn Mansfield and husband Raleigh, Amy Moore and husband Paul, Karen Potter and husband Chris, Lauren Tucei and husband Joe, David Kushner and wife Nicole, Jessica Williams and husband Phil, Cari Fisher and husband Richard, Emilie Rafal and companion Kristin Smyth, Jason Rafal, Elayna Levin and Alexandra Levin, and her 11 great-grandchildren. She also leaves numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was a friend and mentor to the whole family.
A graveside service was conducted in Forest Lawn Cemetery. Rabbi Michael E. Panitz officiated.
Memorial donations may be made in Bevalan’s name to the Freda Gordon Hospice and Palliative Care of Tidewater.
Friends are invited to send condolences and to sign the online guest book at www.omanfh.com.