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George Cliff Obituary

George Raymond Cliff

Nov. 5, 1937 - Oct. 21, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of George Raymond Cliff, who died peacefully on October 21, 2023, surrounded by his beloved family.

George was born at Parks Victory Hospital in Napa on November 5, 1937, to Stanley Earl and Ruth Evelyn Cliff. He proudly graduated from Napa High in 1955, and furthered his education at the College of the Pacific. He spent summers in Tahoe, where in 1956, he met Dale Wickcliffe, impressing her with his waterskiing skills; they married in 1959. George earned a bachelor's degree in political science that same year, and embarked on a distinguished career as a Captain in the Marines.

When he returned to Napa, George founded Cliff Construction, building winery and vineyard properties and custom homes throughout the Valley, shaping the Napa hillsides for nearly four decades. His craftsmanship extended beyond his business; he built a home for his family on Atlas Peak, where he tended Atlas Oaks Ranch from his red Jeep until the 2017 wildfire.

Known for his sense of humor, generosity and warm-hearted nature, George was loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He found joy in clam digging at Dillon Beach, golfing and duck hunting with friends, vegetable gardening, and exploring the far reaches of the world through his extensive travels.

George leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and remarkable achievements. He is survived by his cherished wife of 63 years, Dale Cliff; his brother, Ronald Cliff; his daughters: Cynthia (Alan) Johnson, and Kelli (Patrick) McCrea; his son, Steven (Maureen) Cliff; as well as his grandchildren: Chris (Michelle) Francis, Amy (Justin) Pierce, John (Amanda), and Shannon McCrea, Evelyn and Grayson Cliff; and five great-grandchildren. His faithful companion, Leia, the family dog, also mourns his loss.

A celebration of George's life will be held privately with family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church in Napa or a charity of your choice.


To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Napa Valley Register on Oct. 28, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for George Cliff

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Moss Adams

April 19, 2024

I have just found this obituary. I loved George as my landlord and his drop-bys in the backyard. I had great respect for George but the respect reached into his family. The last interaction With George was he and I hugging in the back alley. I hope George that an afterlife exists because I want you to find your way and place there.

Brenda Harrison

November 7, 2023

My thoughts and prayers are with you all and may God bring you peace in these sad days. God bless

Bob and Carolyn Wallin

November 6, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we share in your great loss. We are grateful to have experienced his joy in life and his helping heart.

Don and Kathie McConnell

November 3, 2023

We are so saddened to hear of George's passing. He was a wonderful man! We will always remember his sense of humor and ready smile.
You are in our hearts and prayers.
Don and Kathie McConnell

Annette H

October 31, 2023

So sorry for the loss of your father, father-in-law, grandfather, husband, and other family members. I pray your sorrow is soon replaced with joyful memories.

Richard Ambrosini

October 30, 2023

Our thoughts and prayers for the family.
Richard & Cindy Ambrosini

Karen M. Hadley

October 30, 2023

My thoughts & prayers go out to the family at this time.
Sincerely,
Karen M. Hadley

George Horvath

October 28, 2023

We worked with George on many projects and he was ALWAYS a good friend and partner on jobs and just a plain good friend. George from Moore and Sayle Glass, Napa

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