NORWICH - Emma Jane Graef Rifanburg Yerton, 64, formerly of Norwich and most recently of Caldwell, Idaho, passed away Monday, April 6, 2009, at her home.
The daughter of Robert D. and Emma L. Lamb Graef, Jane came into the world in Newark, Ark. in February of 1945. Early in her life the family moved to Norwich where Jane attended and graduated from the Norwich High School. She was employed for about 15 years by the C & U Telephone Corporation, working first as an operator and later switching to one of the offices. After leaving the phone company, Jane drove a school bus for the Norwich City School District for 10 - 12 years. On February 9, 1963, Jane married Robert W. Rifanburg, who predeceased her on May 6, 1977. She later married a second time, to Robert Yerton. On a trip to Idaho, Bob and Jane found they liked the area and subsequently relocated there about 5 years ago. An interesting and pleasant lady, Jane will be dearly missed by her family and many firends.
Jane is survived by her husband, Robert Yerton of Caldwell, Idaho; by her children: Robert Rifanburg and companion Sandy of Unadilla, Douglas Rifanburg and companion Cindy of Oxford, Donna Rifanburg of Texas, and Christopher Rifanburg of Arizonia; and by her brothers and their spouses: Dan and Linda Graef of Norwich, Rick and Laura Graef of Columbus, and Tom and Tina Graef of Norwich. She is also survived by many grand and great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. Jane’s family would like to give a special thanks to Jane’s best friend, Peggy Clark, for being there with Jane until the end.
Graveside services for Jane will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday from the Mt. Hope Cemetery. The Rev. Ralph Hinman, pastor of the Bible Baptist Church of Norwich will officiate. There will be no calling hours.
Arrangements are with the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.