March 16, 2016
Clifford Fred Gammelin
Clifford Fred Gammelin, also known as "Papa," "Grandpa" and "Cliffy" by family and friends, was 94 years young when he passed away peacefully on February 24, 2016. His loving family holding him as he made his final transition on earth. Loved and admired as a husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather for his outgoing, happy, kind and generous nature. He demonstrated a strong love and commitment for family, inner strength, and a great sense of humor. He had a thirst and passion for adventure. Travel at the top of his list. Whether it was hooking up a travel trailer or camper (with 5 small children and the family dog), and driving cross country, flying around the world with his wife, Adele, or riding his motorcycle to Alaska, Canada or Mexico, he followed his dreams, creating memories for the many fortunate people in his life. Cliff was a successful entrepreneur. Born in Lyndhurst, New Jersey, he spent summers as a boy in Sparta (Lake Mohawk) New Jersey, installing television antennas on the roofs of houses. He turned this summer job into a thriving TV and appliance business. His keen sense of business coupled with his integrity, infectious smile and gregarious character, was a winning combination. Cliff was an avid car enthusiast. Having owned more than a hundred in his life. He also loved his motorcycles, playing tennis, and riding a bicycle almost every day.
Cliff proudly served as a Marine in World War 2; he fought in Okinawa. He was an upstanding member and supporter of Kiwanis for more than 50 years. He was always lending a helping hand. Cliff volunteered and joined the Maricopa Sheriff’s Posse after retiring and moving to Carefree, ArizonaZ in 1977. He also gave unselfishly of his time to the Foothills Caring Corp (Carefree). He transported the home bound elderly and disabled residents in the Foothills Community to various destinations. Cliff continued to spread much joy and laughter to many more people during his last 2.5 years as a resident at Maravilla Scottsdale, an assisted living facility. And now, as Cliff passes on to his new journey, he provides new guidance and renewed strength to his family. Cliff is survived by his children, son, Jeff (Candy), daughter Joni, son Bob (Elisabeth), 7 grandchildren: Breeze (Andy), Ursula, Cherry, Tab, Callie, Cirque, Tor, and 3 great grandchildren, Kemper, Adelia and Kinsey. He joins his beloved wife Adele, daughters Susan and Betsy, who all predeceased him. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (6931 Arlington Road, Bethesda, MD), Hospice of the Valley (1510 E Flower Street, Phoenix AZ 85014), or to a Veterans Charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Messinger Pinnacle Peak Mortuary.
