To: Holly,Ian,Paul and Jean I always got such a warm cheerful welcome from your Dad, usually with a twist of his dry wit. He will be missed and remembered, Love to you all. Carol Rutherford

Dear Paul We shared a toast in honour of your Dad. Your Dad's service was lovely. We will very much miss him, as we miss you Mom. Jake, Nina, Jamie and I feel fortunate to have been included to share in many wonderful holidays on the lake - it truly is a place full of only the best memories for us as a family. Your Mom and Dad always made us feel so welcome. Jake and Nina consider them as their cottage grandparents. Candlelight dinners, holding hands while your Dad said grace, birthday brownies with candles for your Mom, cards and spoons around the little cottage table, lying on the trampoline watching the Pleiades meteor showers, and of course the dock and lake .... wow, hard to believe all those years of memories. Thank you for introducing us to our Lake McDonald family, you are a special charm and will always hold a place in my heart. Wish we could be with you and Daphne and Jackson in Mexico to celebrate! I imagine that your Dad was at peace knowing that you had found Daphne and had Jackson, as well as knowing that your Mom was well cared for. I will certainly miss his stories and his genuine happiness with life. During one of our last heart to hearts at the cottage he had told me how fortunate he was to have found your Mom and shared so many wonderful years with his family ... I loved the way he was not afraid to choke up and share a tear with me. A wonderful person, we will miss him. Love and hugs, Barb.

On behalf of the Hemsworth family we wish to offer our most sincere condolences to the Morrison clan. Clifton was a much loved fella and will be sorely missed by all who were lucky enough to have known him. Big hugs to his children, grand-children and his wife Jean.

I would like to thank everyone for coming today. It is certainly nice to see family and friends and I am reminded of Dad's words back in 1985 at his retirement party from Johnson Controls (which was his second family) where he had worked for 36 years. He said "I would like everyone to look to the person to your left, then to the person on your right and I will tell you that who you are looking at are some of the finest people there ever were.

I think he would say the same here today.

I think everyone here knew Dad either through his church, through his family, through his work experiences, through his many friends. Many have probably also shared time with him at his favourite part of country - Lake McDonald.

And most of you I'm sure knew him as a personable character with a dry and sometimes provocative sense of humour. His zest for life was people. He loved people, especially his kind of people, and those being the people like himself who loved their kids, loved their partners, loved a job well done, loved to laugh, and could give as good as they got. Dad (or Cliff or 'CR' as everyone else knew him) would, more often than not, strike up a conversation and ultimately make a lasting impression on almost everyone he met. His dry wit and interest in what you were doing endeared him to almost everyone. If he liked you, you might get a nick name. If he really liked you, you were made an honourary Uncle to us kids!

I remember once having a friend over for dinner with the family for the first time. Dad was at his charming best with lots of quips and stories. My friend later told me that she really liked Dad and never laughed so hard in her life, but to herself! "Your Dad is so funny!" she said. "How come no one else was laughing?" I guess we lived with him so long that we took it as just Dad being Dad.

He had a special place in his heart for my wife Maureen whom he always referred to as my 'partner'. Maureen and Dad shared many common interests such as trains, reading and modern history and he would often try and get her going with some outrageous opinion on something or other. Usually she could just go along with it, him being the father-in-law, but a time or two he did get her Irish hackles up, and I would say lived to regret it.

He had a sense of history and loved his Scottish heritage. Like many Scots he was somewhat of a pioneer himself, being the first in his family to move from the rural life in Dunany to the big city of Montreal and later to London Ontario, seeking opportunity. I admired him for that. Like any good Scot he was frugal to the point of frustration but at the same time generous with his time, with his hospitality and his wisdom.

I have heard tell that I could be a contrary little so-and-so when I was a kid (still am??) but I remember Dad as almost always being very patient. Sure there would be temper flare ups and arguments, and he could get mad but, you know, he never got angry. Somehow he knew all this would pass. He also believed exposing his kids to all kinds of "character-building" experiences was a priority, whether it be school, work, music, skiing, work, finicky old outboard motors, finicky old cars, work, social graces and saying grace, more work…..

He and Mom to many people have been almost like an institution. They were almost always together, they were always there with a "so glad to see you" and always ready with a drink, or supper or, at the very least, a conversation. That's not to say the two of them always got along or agreed with each other. Not at all. Two very strong personalities. They say that when an irresistible force meets an immovable object something's gotta give but in their case nothing ever did for long. He could get Mom going at times, mostly as the frustrations of old age set in, but they were to the end soul mates. Dad said years ago when it looked like Mom would someday have to move to Alexandria because of her advancing Alzheimer's, that would be the saddest day of his life. And it was. He was blessed to have some very good friends at the Heritage Lodge that helped him through it.

All his life, but particularly when he was older, one of his favourite pastimes was trying to make little personal connections between people. While at the residence he loved to get phone calls. A typical telephone conversation between he and I would start with something like: "Oh, I met an old guy the other day and after going around the horn a couple of times he told me that he was from Baie d'Urfe and his son went to school with your Auntie Barb. So I told him to give her a call and that she would be glad to hear from him." Or else "The guy was in fixing the air conditioners the other day and he told me that his father used to be in the construction business in Montreal and knew old Jimmy Ferguson. I told him to have his Dad give me a call. I wanted to talk to him." He was just delighted to make these little connections. In all my travels it has always been in my mind to see if somehow I could land on some common ground with someone I met, in a large way so that I could go home and tell Dad about some connection I'd made, or some funny thing that happened to me, or some small victory over something. He loved that. And I knew he shared those stories with others.

Dad was quietly proud of his kids and his grandkids. Our younger son Neil remembers fondly working on a school project together with Granddad. For social studies he had to interview someone who lived through the depression so called up Granddad. The two of them chatted away for the longest time with Neil taking notes and Granddad enjoying the topic and the audience. Our older son Ryan still chuckles about the one spring day at our place in Delta when Dad was assigned the task of vacuuming the pool. Mom came outside and was amazed to see Granddad vacuuming. "How in heck did you get him to do that?!" she asked in amazement. "I've never seen him pick up a vacuum of any kind in my life!"

Like any good Dad and Granddad, he wanted to see us all succeed. He always wanted to know what we were up to, what decisions we were facing and that we were, in our own ways, "building our empires". He probably felt that tug-of-war between letting each of us follow our dreams and do our thing and yet maintain the family ties. I don't think he ever really fully understood what I do for a living, running around the world looking at rocks and drilling holes but he would say "Keep doing what you're doing. It seems to agree with you." He said that again to me on our last phone call.

What would Dad think? This is a question that has popped into my mind frequently and for as far back as I can remember. What would Dad think? He had an opinion on most things and it was usually an opinion that I sought and valued. Dad had an often unique way of looking at something and could often offer a perspective that you wouldn't think of.

It was always important to know "What would Dad think?" Because what he thought, even with me at 59 years old and him at 87, meant a lot.

And what do I think? I think I am pretty proud to have had him as my Dad. And that's valuable.

I am very very sorry to hear about your Dad. He was a great guy with a very dry wit, as I recall. I have many good memories of visits to the cottage. My condolences to you and your family.

Just a few words in the way I know how...love to all. My Uncle Clifton: Curious and listening, His joyful heart overflowed For family, friends and neighbours. A fine man with hair to match, Met me with warmth and humour, I'll always be his "Cornflake" God speed Patty

Dearest Ian I feel so badly for you, as I know how it feels to now move forward in life without a Dad. Fathers are such special creatures, and I know yours was exceptionally kind and wonderful. Mom was saying that how you turned out (to be such a lovely person) is simply a testament to how incredible your parents were...and she told us some stories of how Dad pushed you in a stroller for hours to get you to sleep when he was babysitting you & (she thinks it might have been Holly) with Nanny. Dad called you a 'stubborn little bugger' because you were too curious and bubbly to nap. It's funny how we spent a big chunk of our afternoon together talking about you guys...alas, words tend to feel flimsy in intensely painful in times like these, but at least you have the knowledge that people are sending positive energy and love your way.

Looking at the picture of Uncle Cliff brought back so many memories of family gatherings on the farm. As a kid, it was so exciting knowing that all the sibblings were coming; Bob & Mickey, Glennie & Grant, Barb and Jim, and of course Auntie Jean & Uncle Cliff who were like an older sister and brother. I remember on my 12th birthday I wanted a bicycle so much and Uncle Cliff told me that if I could save $10.00 he could get me one in Montreal. I saved a whole $14.00 and when he brought it he said that “it was the exact amount”. Years later I realized that he’d quietly added to that but I was so proud of my maroon bike. He and A. Jean spoiled me in so many ways; visiting with them during summer holidays at the lake, trips to the Eastern Townships with them, teaching me how to swim in Lake St. Louis and trusting me to look after their babes when they went away. In the mornings at the lake Uncle Cliff would light the fire in the wood stove, put on the bacon and make pancakes for us. I remember also the year he made the boogie board and traipsed us behind the boat for what seemed like hours. Do you remember that too? Such good memories, Ian and ones that we’ll always cherish. With my love Linda xoxo

It is with a saddened heart that we say fairwell to Uncle Cliff. Jean and Cliff were the pillar of the family. He entered our family when we lived in Brownsburg, where Jean was living with us. On a lovely summer evening, Cliff came to visit Jean and brought her a box of chocolates. When she opened it, there was a small velvet box in the middle, containing a beautiful engagement ring. From that day on, the legend of Cliff and Jean began. They were giant idols and role models in my little girl's eyes. So many wonderful memories: a beautiful wedding in September at which I had the honer of being the flower-girl; three wonderful children followed, all did them proud, one even became a geologist. Later on, when I had my own family, we always felt so special when Cliff and Jean invited us up at the cottage, at lake McDonald for a weekend. Uncle Cliff would be the first one up and would sweep the cottage, every morning. On another september morning, Uncle Cliff did me the honor of walking me down the aisle at my wedding, Lloyd, my dad and Jean's brother, not being there anymore to give his own daughter away. Indeed, Uncle Cliff was like a real father to me. When Robert and I retired and moved to Lachute, we would see Jean and Cliff from time to time, especially when they came to town, when Jean went at the hairdresser's. Cliff would stop at the house for an hour or so and bring his favorite sherry for a little nip, then would tell me to keep the bottle for his next visit. The bottle is still in the cupboard as a reminder of his visits. What a joy to have family around for the first time. Although we will not see you at the family gatherings, you will forever be in our hearts, Uncle Cliff. I'll always be thinking of you with much love and appreciation for having had the privilage of knowing such a great person that gave us such a sense of belonging. You will be missed. Lots of love, from your niece, TOOKIE

Jane and I were saddened to learn on Thursday that Murray's collage room mate, best man and longtime friend had passed away and regret that since we are in Florida we were unable to attend the service. Our hearts are with you and we will try to reach you by telephone soon. Cliff's life was a life well lived.

Holly and Family, My sincere condolences to you on the loss of your father. I feel fortunate to have met him, and was saddened to learn of his passing. Please know that you are in my thoughts.

We were sad to hear of the passing of Uncle Clifton. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Bruce, Gillian, Braden and Jodie

So sorry to hear about you dad. Had great memories with him. Thoughts are with you all.

jean...sad to read in the London paper of Cliffs passing.From your days at Highland , I cleaned your golf clubs and years later tried to beat you on the ice! All the best to you and your family....jim, karen & family

Dear Holly, Jeff and family, So sorry to learn of your Dad's passing. Our condolences to you and your mother at this difficult time. Love, Judy, Barry and girls

Dear Ian, Holly, Paul and family, My thoughts have been with you since I received the sad news. I will be thinking of you especially on Friday when you gather to celebrate your dad's life. He had such a unique sense of humour and continuous chuckle. My family and I appreciated Cliff and Jean's visits to Chilliwack when they were out to see Ian and Maureen in BC. for me, Cliff will always be a part of Lake McDonald. Love, Susan

Ian, Holly and Paul: Our deepest sympathies. I will never forget those visits to the lake. The memories will always live on with each of you.

Dear Ian , Holly and Paul , I can’t tell you how sad I am to hear about your dad. I think I first met all of you about grade 2 or 3 at Courtland Park School in Dorval, and I have really great memories of your dad that start about that time . Driving up to cub and then scout camp, to your cottage , skiing , all kinds of things. He was always muttering hilarious lines about things that you could only hear if you were about 2 feet away . I have admired him all my life , and will continue to. He is a man that was dedicated to his family , and extremely generous to his children’s friends. He was a very positive influence on me then, and is to this day. 50 years have passed since those days in Montreal , but I will never forget him. Seeing him several times over the last 20 years and having my wife and children meet him and your mother was a real treat for me. I will truly miss him. My heart goes out to all of you. Bill Hutchon Vancouver BC

So sorry to hear about the loss of your father- enjoyed his company during meal time at the Heritage - Annie Barton and daughters Helen and Mary

Dear Paul, Holly and Ian, I am so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. I wish I was closer to attend the service as he was an important father figure in my life who knew how to laugh and have a good time. The special summers we all shared during those decades of summers at the lake will always be in my heart as will your dad and his hilarious antics . My thoughts are with you at this time. Much love, Lesley

So sorry to hear of Cliff's passing. I met him when I went into Heritage Lodge to either play music or visit. What a truly wonderful man, he was always smiling and grateful for whatever anyone did for him.. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Paul, Holly, Ian and families We are very sorry to hear of the passing of Cliff. Our whole family has amazing memories of time spent with him at the cottage, especially sitting on their deck late in the day sharing a glass of sherry before dinner. They always made us and the kids feel like it was our home away from home. Our thoughts are with you during this time. Barb and Milan

Linda & Bernie made a donation to ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF ONTARIO

We are so sad to hear about the loss of Uncle Cliff. He left one heck of a legacy and we were so lucky to have him in our lives.

Sue Cass made a donation to ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF ONTARIO

Dear Ian/Maureen, Holly/Jeff, Paul/Daphnee and Families As we move forward lets hold onto and build upon so many wonderful memories and good times that have been shared with your Dad over these many years. Sending you much love and condolences. Sue, Jaya, Zoe, Dan and Eva xxxx

The Ouellette-Borza's made a donation to ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF ONTARIO

We would like to extend our most heartfelt sympathies. Fond memories and stories of your father will live on for a very long time.

West Block MHPM-Tiree Friends & Co-Workers made a donation to ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF ONTARIO

During this difficult time we would like to extend our most heartfelt sympathies. Our heart goes out to you and your family during this difficult loss. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do for you in this trying time.

Susan Rutherford made a donation to ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF ONTARIO

I'll always cherish my very fond memories of your Dad.

Bill Hutchon made a donation to ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF ONTARIO

I realize this is a very difficult time , and wish there was something more I could do. My heart goes out to you.

Catherine Ella and John Halliday made a donation to ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF ONTARIO

Our thoughts are with you at this time. Take care.

Doug and Ginette Mercer made a donation to ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF ONTARIO

Paul, Holly and Ian (and extended families), So sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. We had the pleasure of spending with Clifton a day of fun at your cottage, last August (immediately after Jackson's baptism), and will carry these memories with us. Our deepest sympathy to all of you. ~Doug and Ginette