Clifford Allyn Stemper

Clifford Allyn Stemper, age 79 of Cleveland, died September 5, 2025 at his home after a battle with cancer.

To respect Cliff’s wishes, no services will be held.

Cliff was born on December 7, 1945 in Mankato to Harriet M. (Carlstrom) Stemper and Clifford P. Peterson. He graduated from Mankato High and Mankato State University with a Bachelor’s degree in History and a Master’s degree in Anthropology. Cliff served in the Army National Guard. Cliff was married to Elaine Blackley and later to Diane Schmit, the mother of his daughter Barbara. They eventually divorced. Cliff worked as a surveyor and for MN DOT, before starting his own company as an archaeologist. He lived the majority of his life in North Mankato, where his grandfather and great uncles constructed a number of brick homes. He later came to treasure the quieter lake life of Lake Jefferson. He always enjoyed music and watching movies, even from a young age. Later, caring deeply about film preservation. Remember Cliff as you watch a classic movie or adopt and care for a rescued animal.

Cliff is survived by his wife, Stephanie Kruse of Cleveland; daughter, Barbara (James) Salazar of Tularosa, NM; three grandchildren, Cheyann Bartram and David Bartram, both of Tularosa, NM and Tyrell Bartram of Midland, TX; four great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Anne Marie Miller Schmidt and Barbara Stemper; brothers, Nicholas “Nick” J. and Donald E; niece, Cheryl Ann Giese and nephew, Todd Stemper.

Cliff’s family would like to thank Mayo Clinic Health System and St. Croix Hospice for the wonderful care they provided.