Obituary of Clifford Burdette Elder

CLIFFORD BURDETTE ELDER February 27, 1917 - April 10, 2012 Clifford was predeceased by his loving wife, Thelma (1998); brothers: Harold, Everett and Donald; sisters: Flossie Lyal, Marguerite Elder, Freida Pinch and Bernice Pinch. He is survived by sons: Dr. Norman J. Elder (Winnipeg MB), Warren B. Elder (Joan) (Regina SK); daughter, Vera (Glenn) Osborn (Weyburn SK); sisters-in-law, Marlene (Dale) Hannah, Hazel Coward and brother-in-law, Robert Ferguson; eight grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Clifford, youngest child of Orma and Susie Elder, was born on the home farm near Drinkwater SK. In 1939 he married his high school sweetheart, Thelma Fessler. He enrolled in evening accounting classes and was simultaneously employed with Armco, selling culverts to the rural municipalities. In 1941 Cliff enlisted with the Royal Canadian Navy. With initial training in Saskatoon, they moved there briefly until he was required to go to Halifax for further instruction and eventual deployment overseas. Following WWII, Clifford completed the rural municipalities course to become an RM secretary. He began employment with R.J. Fyfe Equipment, starting as the sole salesperson and eventually becoming its general manager. In 1968 several partners and he started Mecho Supply Ltd. For seventeen years Cliff was Chairman of the Regina Spring Horse Show. He was President of the Regina Exhibition Association as well as being on various boards for the organization. Clifford was a member of the Regina Masonic Lodge and the Wa Wa Shrine Temple. During retirement, they enjoyed the cabin at White Bear Lake and all the company and friends it brought. Golfing, curling, trips south and best of all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren kept him active. His family is very grateful for the caregivers at the Regina General and Pasqua Hospitals, Golden Years Manor, Home Care, residents of Grosvenor House, and his many special friends who helped him however possible. With deepest appreciation, we thank you for phone calls, food, donations, and however you helped during our sad time. A Memorial Service, celebrating Cliffords life, will be held at Broadway United Church, 105 Broadway Avenue, Regina SK on Thursday, April 19, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Neonatal Unit, N.I.C.U., Regina General Hospital, 1440 14th Avenue, Regina SK S4P 0W5. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.speersfuneralchapel.com