Vernal Calvin Clifford

Vernal Calvin Clifford "Vern" was born October 3, 1931, in Ogden, Utah to Alva Franklin Clifford and Sarah Martha (Jones) Clifford. Vern was a child during the Great Depression when families suffered difficult economic times. As a result, the family worked hard to develop a very productive home garden and orchard which provided much needed food and income. His mother taught him the value of an education. He loved to read and learn his entire life. His father taught him valuable trade skills including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and cement work. Vern used these skills to support his family and serve countless others over the years.

He left home at the age of 14 to live and work with the Wadsworth family in Sterling, Idaho. They taught him how to farm (potatoes, sugar beets and hay). In 1950 the Korean War draft began, so in January 1951 he enlisted in the United States Air Force and was trained as an aircraft mechanic on the B-29 & B-47 bombers, and later the F-86 & F-100 fighter jets. His time in the Air Force began a career in government service that spanned over 50 years and included organizations such as the Kansas Air National Guard, Boeing Military Aircraft Company, and the Defense Contract Management Agency. He obtained the rank of Senior Master Sergeant while in the military. Health concerns led to retirement at the age of 80.

He met Laura Ione George while stationed at Smoky Hill Air Force Base in Salina, Kansas. He moved to Wichita, Kansas to be near her when his Air Force service was completed. They married in 1957 and raised 5 children. They now have 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

He attended night school at Wichita State University where he graduated in 1977 with a BA degree in Business Administration. He also got his Broker License in Real Estate and started his own property management company. He managed and maintained properties for himself and others.

He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he served in a variety of assignments throughout his life including leadership positions (Bishop, High Counselor, Stake Mission President, and Family History Center Director). He also volunteered in the Boy Scouts of America program as a merit badge counselor.

He enjoyed life. He will be remembered for his intelligence, his quiet service to others, his sense of humor as well as his love of God, family and country.

Vern passed away peacefully at the age of 91 after a long battle with Alzheimer's.

He is survived by his wife: Laura Ione George; sons: Brian Clifford, Lyle Clifford (Carrie) and Matthew Clifford (Kayla); and daughters: Alicia Clifford Schoessow (Daniel) and Denee' Clifford.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Alva Clifford and Sarah Jones Clifford; sisters: Theola Clifford, Arlene Clifford Walker (Carl), Helen Clifford Hadlock; brothers: Dale Clifford (Patricia) and Gordon Clifford (Lenore); daughter-in-law: Addie Jewell Clifford; and granddaughter, Jamie Clifford.

A private family graveside service was held at the Lakeview Cemetery in Wichita, Kansas.

"In lieu of flowers, tune-up your car and check the air pressure in your tires - he would have wanted that." (https://www.familysearch.org/en/blog/truly-personal-obituaries)