CLIFFORD JAMES WOOD

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CLIFFORD JAMES WOOD August 24, 1945 September 06, 2014 Peacefully, on September 6, 2014, with family by his side, Cliff's courageous battle with cancer came to a close. At no time did his illness overshadow his genuine love for life. Cliff was predeceased by his mother Minnie Wood, his brother Tom and sister Marg, as well as his beloved German Shepard "Shep". Left to mourn his passing are; his favourite daughter Lorraine Blaney (Steve) and his favourite son Jim, his caring sister Joyce Wood, brother David, Willy, a special woman with whom he shared a beloved friendship, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, close friends and his dog "Blackie" Cliff was born in the Brooklands district of Winnipeg and raised in the Weston area. He graduated from Winnipeg's Technical Vocational High School in the early 1960's. Following his graduation, he made the conscience decision to live and work in Winnipeg. The vast majority of his working career was spent in the employ of the Canadian National Railway where he was an industrious, respected and long serving heavy duty mechanic for more than 35 years. In addition to his pride of workmanship, he marked his chosen career with the many long lasting friendships he established with fellow co-workers. Cliff's life was filled with many varied activities. Although some of the activities would seem in contrast with others, each one was approached with zest and vigor. He was passionate about piloting airplanes, scuba diving, collecting and refurbishing antiques, square dancing, travelling, 50's 70's music, opera and upon retirement took up archery with his daughter. A long standing favourite activity for Cliff was meeting up with his many coffee buddies, most of whom were women; not so many men. However, first and foremost amongst Cliff's favourite activities was the time he spent with his family. No matter the company, he always displayed his keen wit and very sharp sense of humour. Cliff would go out of his way to help anyone in need. In his very humble manner he especially provided assistance to seniors. This assistance could be in the form of mowing lawns, shoveling snow, fixing a fence and painting. Cliff was an extremely proud Canadian who flew the Maple Leaf at home and at his work station. This pride was fueled by his great interest and avid reading of Canadian war history. He was particularly enamoured with the history of the RCAF. The family would like to express their gratitude to the Palliative Care Staff at the St. Boniface Hospital and the Riverview Health Centre. Special thank you to the staff at Home Instead for providing Cliff with the dignity of being at home. The family appreciates Jerome`s efforts in ensuring that Cliff was never alone and the energy invested by Pat at the WCB to ensure Cliff`s needs were met and his comfort ensured. As well, the family would like to extend its heartfelt appreciation to all who were involved in Cliff`s care and the multitude of friends who visited and supported Cliff in his time of need. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Winnipeg Humane Society at 45 Hurst Way, Winnipeg, R3T 0R3 or the Palliative Care Ward at the Riverview Health Centre at 1 Morley Avenue, Winnipeg, R3L 2P4. In honour of Cliff, a time for recollection and fellowship will be held at the Western Canada Aviation Museum, 958 Ferry Rd on Saturday September 13th between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 12, 2014