My condolences go out to all of Cliff's family. Finding out his passing was a shock which I took harder than expected yet I knew he was finally at peace. There aren't really any words I can say but what an amazing opportunity I had with him and his family.
The last trip to the Yukon was a dream of his to go and be in one last time and I'm glad he got the chance to go and be at home one last time. Making his dreams come true was a blessing. I had the opportunity to care for Cliff for a short period of time and during that time, we've bonded to another level. He and I would talk about anything and everything, from his early life in Toronto, Elliot lake and the Yukon to talking about the history of indigenous people and how he tackled different trades throughout his life. He truly had a blessing life with some hick ups along the way but overall he had a full filled life. He was the most proudest of all his children and how each and everyone of them have their unique personalities and how similar they all are with their father. He had so much love and talked so highly about his first wife/mother of his children, and when meeting her for the first time I knew why. He also had great things to say about his children, especially his baby who he adored the most (no favorites). I would talk to him about my daughter and he would always reassure me that she will become a strong lady when she grows up and not too worry as much. He always was mesmerized by my strength and the ability to move him with ease around, he always said "there's no woman as strong as you who has been able to handle me as you have." He was special and will always be. He's touched so many peoples life, especially mine.
From being with him I later found out that his house he grew up in Toronto was just a block away from my home I used to live in and his children went to the same high school as I did in Ottawa! There were so many little bits of coincidences that has been a part of his life that matched with mine. When I used to live in toronto, I would spend some weekends in Elliot lake taking in the peace and getting away from the city life. Later finding out that was a place he enjoyed to be in. The timing of his death was so personal to me, he passed exactly 12 hours after my daughter was born in her birthday. I take that as a sign that he'll always be in my heart forever and his way of thanking me for everything.
In life things happen for a reason, and I believe Cliff entering my life and vise versa was for a good reason. I tried to make his last moments here as special as I can and at the end, he was happy to be surrounded by all his family. As sad as it is for his ending, his legacy will always continue. He has taught his family great values and it shows. Thank you for being a part of my life.
Cliff, may you rest in peace and always protect your family. It was my honor to care and be there for you, you have touched my heart in ways that I'll never forget.
Much love,
Alex A.
