Gerald (Gerry) Thomas Clifford, born May 4, 1947 in Valleyfield Quebec, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2018. Predeceased by his parents, Reginald Thomas Clifford and Claire Margaret Cullen. He will be dearly missed by his beloved wife Wendy King and his children Jason Clifford and Emily (Wes) Ayranto, their mother Rita, and his two cherished grandchildren, Clara and Oliver Ayranto. He is fondly remembered and missed by his step-children Jordan and Chris King, step- grandchildren Anthony and Brody, as well as brothers-in law Brad (Debbie), Blair (Sandy), sister-in law Nancy (Bob). Gerry leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, close friends and family who will miss Trivial Pursuit, euchre, and golf games with him. He was a well known broadcaster with an outstanding career. It began at CJET radio in Smiths Falls, moving to CHOW radio in Welland, followed by Mid-Canada Communications in Sudbury. That jumpstarted his managerial career taking him from CHRO in Pembroke, back to Sudbury and on to Sault Ste. Marie. After a satisfying career in media, Gerry changed course and joined Manitoulin Transport as their Corporate Trainer. From there, he became involved in the driver side of the business, as manager of five locations of Northern Academy of Transportation Training and Transport Help. Gerry then moved to Manitoulin Island and chose a path that would continue to allow him to interact with people, working in sales at the Manitoulin Expositor and then finally, at Bridal Veil Esso until his health started to fail.While working hard in his professional career, he also made time to volunteer as an active board member of the United Way, Big Brothers, Laurentian Hospital, Chamber of Commerce, and Junior Achievers. He was also a member of Smiths Falls Little Theatre where he performed in many plays. In 2010, Gerry was awarded the Elizabeth Center’s Make a Difference Award to honour his many years of giving back. Gerry enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his family, gardening, playing golf, or shopping for his next golf shirt, watch or pair of shoes. His best days involved good company, good food, and sharing long stories over a Jack Daniels or trying a new beer. Gerry also enjoyed a competitive round of Monopoly, reading sci-fi or watching baseball or golf with his cat on his lap. His kindness, easy-going manner, sense of humour and gift of gab will be remembered and missed by all who knew him. Gerry’s family would like to express their greatest gratitude to Dr. Wilson for her endless respect and efforts in caring for Gerry through his long illness. Also, to Gloria and the staff at the Manitoulin Lodge for the level of care given to Gerry during his stay there. A special thanks to Peter for coming into his life at the perfect time and giving Gerry two precious gifts, his time and unending friendship. At Gerry’s request, cremation has taken place. Please join family and friends for a Celebration of Gerry’s Life, Saturday, October 27, 2018 from 1 pm to 6 pm in the Worthington Room at the Clarion Hotel, Sudbury. Memorial donations may be made as expressions of sympathy to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or for Lewy Body Dementia research to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, and may be made through www.simpsonfuneralhome.ca.
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