HICKS, Clifford Francis Suddenly, after a remarkable 87 years, Cliff passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Monday, October 15, 2018. Left to carry on “One Day at a Time” are Mary, his devoted wife of 67 years and his grateful children: Stephen (Linda), David (Jane), Dale, Nancy (Bill) Soroka and Jane (Tim) Wakil. Unforgettable Poppa to Jennifer, Amy (David Bain), Jessica (Nick), Heather (Raymond), Max (Sarah), Colin (Elora) and Liam and “Big Poppa” to Sydney and Elijah.
Cliff was born December 18, 1930 to Uriah Stephen and Marion (MacDonald) in Aylmer, Quebec and grew up in the Sandy Hill area of Ottawa. One of seven siblings, he is survived by his sister Shirley Eagen. Waiting to see him once again in heaven are Bernie, Marion (Harry), Stephen (Joan), Audrey (Ken), Barb (Barry), Tom, infant son Brian David and countless friends and family.
He was a gifted athlete, playing baseball, golf, lacrosse and hockey. His talent as a hockey goaltender led him to Guelph where he played for the Biltmores and met Mary. He was drafted by the New York Rangers in 1951 and played in various professional leagues in Canada and the U.S. He was our hero who gave hope to those who had lost hope, strength to those who were feeling weak and a kick in the butt to those who needed it. A selfless shepherd whose door was always open and giving to those in need. His journey, “One Day at a Time”, returned him to himself, his family and many others to the Sunny Side of the Street. Lord, we thank you for the precious gift of family and Cliff’s amazing life.
Friends will be received at the DONALD V. BROWN FUNERAL HOME , 36 Lake Avenue Dr., Stoney Creek on Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. and on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Funeral Service at 11 a.m. in the Funeral Home Chapel. Cremation to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in Cliff’s memory can be made to The Good Shepherd of Hamilton. Notes of sympathy and condolence may be left at www.donaldvbrown.ca