September 29, 2015
Veteran
William Clifford
Private Service
Clifford, William A. “Bill” of Revere, formerly of Brookline, died September 29, 2015.
Loving husband of the late Astrid “Sandy” Clifford. Devoted father of Stephen Clifford of West Roxbury, Cynthia Clifford of Busan, South Korea and the late Timothy Clifford. Dear brother of Helena Clifford of Holbrook and Geraldine Serreze of Kennebunkport, Maine. Grandfather of Alexander Clifford of Fayston, VT. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Clifford grew up in Holbrook and graduated from Holbrook High School. Upon graduation Mr. Clifford joined the military and served in the U.S. Army stationed in the Pacific Theatre during WWII. Upon discharge Mr. Clifford went to college at Boston University where he met Astrid Kulberg, the woman who became his wife and life long partner until her untimely death in 1982. While in high school, Mr. Clifford started working for the railroad, holding various positions and later advancing to train dispatcher. He then became a union official and retired as the President of the American Train Dispatcher Association in 1999. Mr. Clifford was always an avid reader of mystery novels and political books. He loved discussing politics and read both the Boston Globe and New York Times on a daily basis. Mr. Clifford was also an avid sports fan who followed not only the professional teams but college sports as well, especially Boston University men’s ice hockey and Boston College women’s basketball. Mr. Clifford also served as a coach and volunteer for Brookline Youth Baseball and was President of the organization for several years. Mr. Clifford gave generously to several charitable organizations including Project Bread and the Boston Food Bank as well as making donations to several politicians and political organizations.
Per his wishes, burial and memorial services will be private. In lieu of flowers you may make a donation to a charity of your choice.
Mr. Clifford’s family would like to thank the staff at Briarwood Nursing Home in Needham for their care and compassion during the last months of Mr. Clifford’s life. It was greatly appreciated.