Daniel Clifford

1933 - 2023

Daniel Clifford
In Loving Memory of Daniel Clifford (Dan). Devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather and Brother, Dan Clifford 90, was born on April 14, 1933, in New Haven, CT, to the late Patrick and Mary (Sullivan) Clifford. Dan was part of large tight knit Irish family, the youngest of 9 children, he was predeceased by his 8 brothers and sisters, Mary Ostrander, Jim Clifford, Kathryn Clifford, Barbara Chase, John Clifford, Patrick Clifford and Thomas and Eugene who died in infancy. He passed away on November 29, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and a life well-lived. Struck with polio at the age of 10 and told he would never walk again, through pain, hard work and determination proved the doctors wrong and excelled in basketball, baseball, golf and was even inducted into the Connecticut Fast Pitch Softball Hall of Fame.
This determination followed Dan throughout his life as he served his country during the Korean War in the U.S. Army. Following his military service, his thirst for knowledge and adventure led him to explore and travel the world extensively. After returning home, Dan pursued his education, attending Quinnipiac University and Springfield College earning a degree in History. He then furthered his education by obtaining a master's degree in history from the University of Bridgeport. In 1958, Dan began his career in education at Henry Abbot Tech then moved on to Bullard Havens where he was teacher, basketball coach, and mentor who impacted the lives of numerous students and athletes. His coaching abilities were exemplified by leading the basketball team to the state finals in 1967. Later, at Plat Tech Dan was Department Head and finished his career in education at Emmet O'Brian where he earned the esteemed Teacher of the Year award. In addition to his educational career, Daniel was also successful realtor with Jack Clifford Realty. Daniel raised his family in Orange, CT, and was a lifelong Giants, Red Sox and Notre Dame fan. An avid golfer, he enjoyed spending time on the golf course, embracing the camaraderie the sport offered and played well into his 80's.
Dan leaves behind his loving wife of 60 years Elaine P. Clifford, his sons Daniel and his wife Catherine and Michael and his wife Ruth, as well as his five grandchildren, Meghan, Kevin, Julia, Emma and Patrick. "Pa" as he was lovingly called by his grandchildren, was a playful friend, teaching them how to juggle, throw a ball, putt a golf ball, and how it felt to be loved unconditionally. His family brought him immense joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them. A gathering of Family and Friends will be held at Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT, on Saturday December 9th from 8-9:30am. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Infant Church, 450 Racebrook Rd., Orange, CT at 10:30am. Burial with Military Honors will follow at St. Lawrence Cemetery, 280 Derby Ave, West Haven CT 06516. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Alzheimer's Association in Dan's memory - Alzheimer's Association - Daniel Clifford. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.