Clifford, John Francis (Frank)
1930-2018
Passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on Wednesday, January 24, 2018. Beloved husband of Mary Clifford (2015). Loving father of Cathie Streeter (Doug), Frank (Adriana), Larry (Patti), Patty MacLellan (Kevin) and Gerry (Cathy). Dear grandfather of Brian (Alyssa), Veronica (Brendan), Christine (Steve); John (Dawn), Michael (Natalie), Steven; Kyle, Katie (Jordan), Kevan; Alicia (Brendan), Olivia (Brody), David; Mitchell, Brooke and Sarah. Great-grandfather of Nathan, Logan, Dominic and Hailey.
Predeceased by his parents Frank and Alice.
Frank began his career as an elementary teacher in Welland. Master of teachers at Stratford Teachers College, Principal of Peterborough Teachers College, Superintendent of Education for Hamilton Wentworth County Separate School Board, Director of Education for Waterloo County Separate School Board and ended his career with the Ministry of Education. Frank was honored by the University of Windsor, Brock University and University of Waterloo each with an Honorary Doctorate of Law. He was also honored by the Catholic Community in 2012 as a Knight of St. Gregory the Great for his life of service. Frank was the first recipient of the Ed Nelligan Award (1985) from OCSOA and received the John Sweeny Award (2014).
His wife and family were the most important things to him. He was an avid sports fan who cheered for the Argos, Jays and never stopped supporting the Toronto Maple Leafs. Cherished memories of family celebrations and trips to Florida fill our hearts. He fought his illness with courage, integrity and grace and although he will be dearly missed, the family values he instilled in us will remain forever.
Frank's family will receive relatives and friends on Sunday, January 28, 2018 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Henry Walser Funeral Home, 507 Frederick St., Kitchener, 519-749-8467. Parish prayers 8:00 p.m. Sunday evening. Prayers will be offered in the funeral home at 10:20 a.m. on Monday, January 29, 2018 followed by procession to Our Lady of Lourdes R.C. Church, 173 Lourdes St. West, Waterloo for a Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. A reception will follow the funeral mass in the church hall. Private Cremation has taken place.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Parkinson Society of Southwestern Ontario or to the Sunnyside Foundation would be appreciated by the family (cards available at the funeral home).
Special thanks to all those who supported and encouraged Frank on his journey.
Visit www.henrywalser.com for Frank's memorial.