I had the pleasure of meeting Clem almost 15 years ago when he and his wife, Diane required computer tutoring. Clem was bigger than life and always so kind, welcoming and fun. I would pop over to help him book trips to warm sunny places then help him sort his photos upon his return. We’d sit in his home office, eat snacks and design Christmas cards or whatever he needed to get done that day. Clem always had the biggest smile on his face. He truly made me feel like family, inviting me out for dinner with his kids to his favourite Italian place in Bridgeland or a sweet little winebar in Kensington. Clem was always so wonderful. When I told him that I’d bought a food truck, he never let a visit pass without asking me how “The Weenie Wagon” was doing. One day I told him I bought a school bus and planned to live and travel in it and he wrote me an email saying that we should probably have brunch before I left. YFC, Clem is how he’d always sign off: “Your Favourite Customer”... I would always sign off YFC as well (Your Favourite Comedian)...gosh, he and Diane even came to a few of my shows at Jupiter Comedy in Kensington. Sitting front row, even after telling them that they were in the danger zone, they’d end up being the stars of the show. So supportive.
We met for brunch. After looking at the menu briefly he said “I want pancakes..” to which I replied “Me too!” Then he goes “I think I’d also like a glass of wine. Would you have a glass of wine?” I smiled at him “Pancakes and wine?!” and with his signature smile, he let out a big happy “Why not?!” We had so much fun on this day, catching up and talking about our future plans. This was one of the last times we ate together.
Clem lived a long full life. He told me 17th Avenue was a dirt road when he first moved to Calgary. He was president of the Petroleum Club the year I was born. He traveled the world, he loooved his family. I will always remember Clem for his kindness, sincerity and joy of life.
I will miss you sweet buddy
Safe travels
yfc, jo
#PancakesandWine
