Wilbert John Griffin

On Friday, April 1, 2022, Wilbert John Griffin made his transition to paradise.
Wilbert J. Griffin was born on May 7, 1929, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late George and Lina Griffin. He cherished his three siblings, Mary Woods, Bess Griffin (Harris), and Charles Griffin.
He enjoyed his childhood and attended Cleveland Public Schools. While in grade school, he broke his leg in an accident. Due to his leg not being set correctly, he would spend an entire school year at home recuperating and forever walk with a limp, which led to his friends and family affectionately nicknaming him "Crip."
In Wilbert's young adult years, he would meet the love of his life, the late Clara Allen. They married in 1949 and built a loving life together that would span over sixty-six years. Wilbert was embraced and loved by the entire Allen family. He became not only Clara's loving husband but also the family protector, a big brother, and a father figure to Clara's younger siblings: the late Frances Allen (Shoulders), the late Johnny Allen, and Shirley Allen (Price), and a second son to the late Rachel Allen. Wilbert and Clara raised one son, the late Michael Lyn Griffin.
Wilbert served his country, joined the army, and was a Korean war veteran. He often enjoyed telling his nieces and nephews how he missed his calling as a comedian as he performed impromptu comedy routines for his fellow soldiers.
Wilbert worked as a Truck Driver for Stevens Construction for over forty years; he was an excellent, hardworking employee and a proud 860 union man. He gave out turkeys and hams every year and made sure family and close friends received great union 860 swag (keychains, beach towels, watches, glasses, and even 860 battery charging cables).
Wilbert was a sharp dresser when the occasion called for it, and he enjoyed a clean (but stinky) magic powder shave. He rarely missed playing the lottery and kept a dream book on hand to align the correct numbers. Wilbert was great with numbers, period. He liked working on cars with his nephews; he loved his Cadillacs. Did he ever drive any other kind of car than a Caddy? He relished playing pool, and back in the day, he once owned a pool hall! He had an appreciation for old black & white movies, especially a good western on the television.
Wilbert was a great friend to many. Even after he and Clara moved to the suburbs of Cleveland, he never forgot his dear friends and always was delighted to meet up with his buddies to hold court and drink coffee. Where is Uncle Wilbert – he is down the way hanging out with his friends.
Wilbert was a beloved uncle for generations of nieces and nephews. He was a master storyteller, loved riddles, told great jokes, never missed a family party, and was a great dancer. You could always count on a friendly card or checkers game, and he was always ready to make a quarter disappear. Sometimes you must observe him during a card game because if you weren't paying attention, an extra deuce might magically appear (smile). He was fun-loving and always brought a smile to your face.
Wilbert J. Griffin will remain in our hearts forever. We will miss him dearly but find comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his Claire and is at peace with the Lord. Rest well.
He leaves to celebrate his homecoming, grandchildren, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and many friends.