CHARLES “CHUCK” STANDISH CLIFFORD

FERRISBIRGH — Charles “Chuck” Clifford, 71, of Ferrisburgh, Vt., passed away on Feb. 24 surrounded by loved ones, after suffering from a heart attack.

Born on Oct. 18, 1952, to Margaret “Kate” and Ernest “Ernie” Clifford in Burlington, Vt., Chuck was a lifelong resident of Addison County whose presence in the community will be profoundly missed.

Chuck graduated from Vergennes Union High School, and then pursued a five-year-long career in the United States Navy.

Following his tour of duty, Chuck dedicated 46 years to a distinguished career as a calibration technician with Collins Aerospace. Chuck was passionate about this work and loved all of his friends and family he met there.

Chuck pursued life with a sense of wonder and enthusiasm. An avid outdoorsman, Chuck’s love for the natural beauty of Vermont was manifested in his hobbies of fishing, hiking, skiing, and scavenger hunts. Additionally, his artistic talent was evident in beautiful paintings he created. Most importantly he cherished his time with his family, as he was a wonderful and loving father and proud Grandfather.

Chuck was predeceased by his father Ernie; his sister Sharon Delwig; and his brothers Danny Thompson and Gale “Tweet” Thompson. Survivors in addition to his mother, Kate, include his two sons, Adam Clifford and Shawn Clifford; his three grandchildren, Arianna, Eli and Caitlyn Clifford; his lifelong partner, Judy LaBombard; sisters Pamela Cross, Patricia Neate, and Constance Gilbert; and brother Michael Thompson.

Calling hours will be held at Victory Baptist Church, Vergennes on Friday, March 1, from 1-2:30 p.m., with a memorial service and celebration of life immediately following. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Vergennes Area Rescue Squad.

The family of Chuck would like to thank the emergency response team at Collins Aerospace and the Vergennes Area Rescue Squad for supporting our Dad in his time of need. ◊