Harold Neilson Cliff

CLIFF, Harold Neilson Was born November 26, 1913 in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. He died June 27, 2008 in Victoria, BC. Predeceased in 2006 by Peggy, his wife of more than sixty years, Harold is survived by daughter Pat (Paul), son Bill (Linda), grandsons Christopher, Kevin (Ramona), and Andrew, and great-grandson Aiden. He is also survived by: his sister Kay (Jim); his nieces and nephews, Bill (Carol), Lynn (Les), Sandy (Dave), David (Connie); and his great-nieces and greatnephews Trevor, Amber, Shannon, Paul, Michael, Candice, Tim and Jesse. Harold's life was characterized by service, integrity and generosity. His father's job with the CPR moved his family to many locales from Manitoba to BC. Harold helped out on relatives' farms on the Prairies in his teens and worked as a caddie through university. His father died when Harold was only 20 so Harold took responsibility for his mother's and young sister's support. He obtained his forestry degree at UBC and shortly after joined the Canadian army at the onset of World War II. Harold rose to a Captain's rank as an Engineering Division instructor in Nova Scotia where he first lived with his new wife, Peggy. At the war's end, the couple moved to Vancouver, he joined the BC Forest Service, and their family expanded with the birth of Patricia. They soon moved to Victoria where their son Bill was born. Throughout his Forest Service career Harold led by example both in the field and in the administrative offices. During his career and retirement Harold accumulated friends from the forest industry, Toastmasters, and the Bluebird Bridge Club. After retiring he spent much of his time fishing, golfing and woodworking. Peggy and Harold also enjoyed travelling, both overseas and across North America. Around the house, Harold was the original DIY expert. He built several boats and was constructing a double bass violin in his 90's. Most of his projects contained recycled material, long before it became the thing to do". Harold had a musical talent-he played piano in a dance band in his early years, he played the banjo, ukulele, recorder and violin, and learned the saxophone in his 80's. In a long, full life, Harold's personal traits and multiple abilities gained the respect and affection of friends, workers, and especially, his family. A memorial service will be held at the Sequoia Gardens Chapel in the Royal Oak Cemetery, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria on Wednesday, July 9, 2008 at 2 p.m. Reception to follow service in adjoining room. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the CNIB. 481612