Clifton Edward LaBombard

He was born in Plattsburgh, NY and raised in Rousse’s Point, NY. In his early years he would spend Summers helping out at his family’s farm which helped feed the local community during the Great Depression. After graduating from Rouses Point High School in 1946, he chose to serve his country by enlisting in the U.S. Navy. His first duty station included operating teletype stations in Bremerhaven, Germany and standing watch onboard the now iconic, U.S. Coast Guard Cutter “Eagle” (WIX-327). During off duty hours, he played steel guitar in the band “White Caps” with other musically inclined sailors.

After his first enlistment in 1948, he moved to New York City and attended college courses in Manhattan. For work, he served refreshments at a local theater, serving people such as New York baseball legend Joe DiMaggio. Additionally, he often played guitar with his band in numerous venues around the area.

From 1951 to 1952 he returned to naval service as a second class petty officer and relocated to Charleston, SC. After his service in the Navy concluded he joined the local C&S Bank. Through his hard work and determination he aggressively worked his way up in his position. In 1954 he was promoted to the position of assistant manager of the tabulating department in Columbia, S.C which oversaw the large organizations first use of computers.

During his time in South Carolina his love of sports saw him help out and coach many youths in football. In his little bit of free time he would film all of the football games for Irmo High School. He would also continue to pursue his love of music and consistently played his steel guitar. Oftentimes, he played with other notable musicians such as Steel Guitar Hall of Famer Buddy Emmons.

In the 1970’s he completed flight training and obtained his pilots license. He was an avid flyer and used this skill to travel to job sites where he oversaw construction of new C&S Banks until his retirement. After, selling the mobile home park that he built from the ground up he relocated to Florida. In Florida, he enjoyed his later years traveling the world by boat, plane and motor home. He also continued to closely follow sports and play his steel guitar.

He was a well respected figure in all of the locales that he resided. He was an inspirational person whose hard work ethic, “tell it how it is” attitude and kindness touched everyone. This gentle, loving, caring and wonderful man has left a permanent mark etched on our hearts and will be truly missed.

A visitation for Clifton will be held Friday, August 28, 2020 from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Meadowlawn Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 4244 Madison Street, New Port Richey, FL 34652. A funeral mass will occur Saturday, August 29, 2020 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Church of Saint Mary Our Lady of Sorrows, 18810 US 41, Masaryktown, FL 34610. An entombment will follow the funeral mass at Meadowlawn Memorial Gardens, 4244 Madison Street, New Port Richey, Florida 34652.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NorthMeadowlawnFuneral.com for the LaBombard family.