Ernest "Ernie" Clifford
February 26th, 2020
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Ernie Clifford at the end of February, 2020.
Ernie avidly acquired new information and loved to share, and occasionally debate, what he learned. He had particular interest in music, food and Canadian history. His early love of music was fed by working in a record store and was later expressed in his extensive personal collection of albums and records and his volunteer work with Regina Folk Festival. He also contributed to the local community by volunteering with Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, youth soccer, the Terry Fox Run and Regina Little Theatre.
He pursued his love of cooking and food by searching out new restaurants, loyally patronizing his favourite places, amassing an extensive recipe and kitchen gadget collection and cooking for his family. His love of books lead him first to work in bookstores and eventually to own his own. His later work as a courier nourished his joy in connecting with a wide variety of people. He could talk to anyone about anything and everything. In recent years, he was active in the social life at Trianon Tower, attending dinners and entertainment events, playing bingo and puzzling.
His love of football grew from playing rugby as a young man. Ernie was a long-time loyal Saskatchewan Roughrider fan and a great supporter of Canadian football. He attended hundreds of games, never dissuaded by unfavourable weather.
Ernie loved his mother’s Nanaimo bars. He treasured the memories of his travels and was keen to hear the stories and pictures of other travellers. Times spent in the Rockies provided particularly fond memories.
He is survived by son Kevin (Christine), sister Yvonne (Randy), numerous nieces and nephews and cherished friends Dave, Yanling and Judy.
The family will hold a private remembrance gathering.
Messages:
I loved this guy! We shared a love of music, beer, friends & great talks. When I had my record store in Regina, Ernie would often double-park during his errands as a legal courier; run in and buy most of the albums I had stashed away for him. During my music repping years I'd get in touch when I was in Regina and we'd grab beers or coffee or a gig...or any combination & then I'd let Ernie raid my trunk for some promo CDs. We worked the merch tent together for many years at Regina Folk Festival & always had a blast. Ernie was instrumental in me making a fast friend when I moved to Pincher Creek back in 2006. A rancher pulled up to the house one day and started telling me how he'd had a problem with an ipod his kids had given him for Christmas. I thought THAT was strange!! He continued that he'd had problems & had called the Sears 1-800# & that the guy who answered the call was really helpful & arranged a replacement; no problem! Evidently Bob (the rancher) had problems again, called the 1-800# and (IT NEVER HAPPENS) got the same guy on the line!! Yep, that was Ernie!! During their conversation, Ernie had asked where Bob was from & when he told him, Ernie said "oh I have a friend who moved there a while back. Evidently he lives in an octagon house". Bob was my neighbour just down the road, who I had never met until he pulled up that day. Bob was also a lovely guy & became a fast friend. All thanks to Ernie!! Unfortunately I have now lost both. I think they'll get on like a house on fire upstairs though, looking down on us and smiling. While Bob was Mormon & didn't drink, they'll both share their love of great music & have some wonderful conversations. RIP Ernie xo
Ernie was kind, generous, and had a big heart. He had a way of including people in his life and making them feel loved instead of judged. He introduced me to cribbage and sometimes even let me win! I have many fond memories of Ernie that I will cherish. May you, his family, find solace in each other and peace during this difficult time. Until we see you again, Ernie, may you rest in peace. Love Jen
My Condolences to my cousin Kevin and Christine. To my Aunt (Sister) Yvonne & Uncle Randy and all of my cousin we have lost a loved and valuable part of our family. Thank you Uncle Ernie for many many beautiful cherished memories you left with me. Love has no words only how my heart feels. Love you always
Ernie was kind, generous, and had a big heart. He had a way of including people in his life and making them feel loved instead of judged. He introduced me to cribbage and sometimes even let me win! I have many fond memories of Ernie that I will cherish. May you, his family, find solace in each other and peace during this difficult time. Until we see you again, Ernie, may you rest in peace. Love Jen
My condolence to your family may your dad rest in peace
Happy Father's Day Ernie! I am missing you today! Love you always your sis.❤