Obituary of Wayne Roy Clifford

July 30, 1949 - Cereal, Alberta

December 14, 2022 - Calgary, Alberta

 

With immense sadness, we announce the passing of Wayne Roy Clifford on Wednesday, December 14, 2022, at the age of 73. 

 

Wayne was born July 30, 1949, in Cereal, AB, to parents Harvey and Verda. He was the baby of the family (and the apple of his mother’s eye), joining siblings Vietta and Glen. He lived in small towns throughout Alberta while his father worked for the railroad. Childhood and adolescent pursuits included playing the piano and guitar, bowling, singing in the choir, participating in drama club and musical theatre, and playing hockey. He eventually planted roots in Calgary, attending Viscount Bennett High School and later obtaining his Bachelor of Arts in English degree at the University of Calgary.

 

Wayne married Maureen, whom he affectionately nicknamed “Li’l Mo”, in December 1977, and so began 45 years of wonderful adventures. In the early years of their marriage, they enjoyed travelling together on many trips; these included expeditions to Vancouver, Utah, California, Hawaii, Jamaica, and Mexico. Two children, Lauren and Kellen later added much love and a new flavour to their lives. Many Siamese cats provided entertainment and companionship over the years.

 

Wayne was passionately devoted to his many hobbies. As a 35-year member of the Winston Golf Club (formerly, Elks), he was out on the golf course at every opportunity, practicing and constantly striving to improve his game. Calgary winters were devoted to racquet sports including racquetball, squash, and, most recently, pickleball; he was a long-time member of the Calgary Winter Club.

 

In the early 90s, Wayne discovered Scrabble, allured by the challenge and strategic intrigue. As a Director of the Calgary Scrabble Club for many years, he dedicated himself to mastering the game, mentoring others, and travelling to many tournaments. Known as “The Bearded Boss” by his many cherished friends in the Scrabble Community, Wayne was a fierce and respected competitor.

 

Gifted with an impressive intellect and deep curiosity about the world, Wayne loved to share his thoughts, opinions, and many interests with others. He relished discussion about politics, studying geography and history, with a particular interest in World War II, keeping up with multiple sports and teams and favourite television shows (he and Maureen watched ‘Coronation Street’ together for over 30 years), and appreciating the talents of musicians of a myriad of genres (whose songs he delighted in playing for others). He was well-loved and admired by many lifelong friends who came to know and appreciate his drive and inquisitiveness. He demonstrated his affection in the pleasure he took in devising nicknames to capture the unique qualities and quirks of those in his company. 

 

Wayne possessed an insatiable urge to better himself. This drive permeated his life, even while navigating difficult medical challenges as he battled Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Even in the weeks and days immediately preceding his passing, he continued to analyze his Scrabble gameplay and search out tools to improve his strategy in online poker. For over three years, he beat the odds as he fought his illness. He was intent on living the life that he loved and relentless in his pursuit of more time, focusing on making it to the next milestone – whether it be the next golf season (even purchasing new golf shoes late this summer, setting his sights on next year), the birth of his granddaughter, or the next time Kellen was going to visit. Wayne’s resolve was such that he rallied and rebounded countless times when it had seemed unlikely he could make a comeback. His ultimate passing came as a shock to those who had learned to never count him out. He never gave up hope.  A stoic fighter, the wryness of Wayne’s humour and optimistic outlook were ever-present.

 

Wayne was predeceased by his parents, Harvey and Verda Clifford of Delia, AB; and his brother, Glen Clifford, of Calgary, AB. He is survived by his loving wife, Maureen, his son, Kellen of Vancouver, BC, his daughter, Lauren of Airdrie, AB, and his beautiful new granddaughter, Clara.  He is also survived by his sister, Vietta Johnson of California, USA, brother-in-law, Bob Johnston of Kirkland Lake, ON, and his nieces and nephews.

 

The family would like to thank the dedicated staff at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre (Bone Marrow Transplant Clinic staff, Unit 57 staff, and in particular, Nurse Camille with the AML drug trial), Peter Lougheed Centre (Hematology Outpatient Clinic staff and Unit 38 staff), and Dr. Bryant for their excellent care. He spoke with great fondness about the nurses who tended to him over so many hours. His rapport and conversations with staff kept his spirits up as he attended innumerable appointments for procedures and treatments over the years. The family is also incredibly grateful for the thoughtful and tireless support of friends both near and far (you know who you are).

 

Wayne often listened to – and found comfort in – a favourite Reggae song, ‘Born to Be Lively’ by Ziggy Marley & The Melody Makers. While our hearts are broken, we will honour these lyrics as we think of our husband, dad, and friend:

 

“We’re on a positive track today….

Nothing they do can keep us down (people move!)

Nothing they say can stop this crowd (people move!)….

We rejoice in good times, yea

We rejoice in bad times too, yea

So no matter what’s going down

I say: Born fi lively....

Keep yourself high! (keep yourself high!)

Keep yourself up

Now keep yourself high

Born to be lively,

We’re born to be lively…’

 

As it was Wayne’s request, no service will be held. In his memory, enjoy some Reggae music, go golfing, play some poker or a Scrabble game, watch some football, and cheer on the Calgary Flames.

 

In living memory of Wayne Clifford, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.