Clifton R. Baxter

Cliff was born in Quincy, IL, on December 20, 1942, the son of C. Rodney Baxter and Velma (McGinnis) Baxter. He married Jan Garner on December 7, 1968.

Cliff began his career with CMT in 1965 after graduating with a Master of Science in Structural Engineering from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. He was a Registered Professional Engineer and Registered Structural Engineer. He grew in his career as a manager and, in 1979, was named an officer and director of the firm. He was elected in 1992 as President of CMT, and in 1995, became Chairman and CEO. Cliff retired from his leadership role at CMT on February 5, 2005.

Cliff was known for his outstanding leadership. Throughout his career he contributed significantly to CMT’s conversion to computers for modeling, drafting, and business practices. He also played a pivotal role in the development of an ongoing, comprehensive strategic planning process at CMT. Furthermore, Cliff was known for his genuine interest in the welfare of others, from employees and their families to the many professional, civic and charitable organizations he engaged in. His notable contributions were honored by the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) with the National Service Award in 2004.

Cliff served on several boards including the Illinois State Chamber of Commerce, Memorial Medical Center and Memorial Health System, US Bank Board, Advisory Board for University of Illinois at Springfield, United Way of Central Illinois, and Illini Country Club.

Cliff’s family was most important in his life: wife, Jan; sister, Velma (Baxter) Kelly; brother- in-law, Norm (Judy) Knous; niece, Colleen (Steve) Bratcher and their children, Samantha and Michael; nephew, Kyle (Jessica) Knous; nephew, Lucas Knous, nephew Matthew Knous (Taylor) and their children, Owen and Zoey; niece, Marci Garner and her children, Wesley and Wyatt; cousin Dino (Tammy) and niece Devin Dinora; nephews Rodney and Joseph Garner.

Cliff was known as “Uncle Cliff” to Amie Kelly, Karrie, Brett John, Heather and Tara Wagner.

Cliff enjoyed golf, spending time with family and he and Jan enjoyed many travel adventures with special friends!

He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Dennis Kelly; nephew, Michael Kelly; and brother-in-law, Micah Garner.

Memorial contributions may be sent to: Memorial Health Foundation, Westminster Presbyterian Church or SIU School of Medicine - Internal Medicine Foundation.

Private services were held.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.