Robert “Bob” Louis Clifton, 88, died on Dec. 20, 2023, at the United Pioneer Home in Luck, Wisconsin.
Bob was born on Sept. 13, 1935, to Theodore and Agatha (Krogh) Clifton in Kenmare, North Dakota. Thefamily moved to Luck in 1938. Bob attended school at Luck and graduated in 1954.
He married Alva Nielsen on July 5, 1958. They enjoy 56 years of marriage until her death on Dec. 14, 2014. To this union four sons, David, Thomas, James and John, were born.
After high school Bob went on to obtain his bachelor’s and master’s degree in education. During this time he also served in the 32nd Wisconsin National Guard, 1961-1962. Bob would ultimately spend 60-plus yearsdevoted to the education of youth in the Luck area. He taught junior high math and science for 34 years, 1961-1994, and served as elementary principal, 1976-1978. He also served as a coach for boys and girls basketball, as well as teaching driver’s education. He failed at retirement almost immediately.
He returned to the classroom as substitute teacher for Unity, Frederic and Luck school districts, 1994-2002. Heserved as school board member for 18 years, 12 years as school board president.
Outside of school he served with the Luck volunteer fire department, and volunteer hunter safety teacher. Hewas village assessor for Luck and Frederic for 40-plus years. Bob served on church council and as a Sunday school teacher at West Denmark Lutheran Church. He was a devoted committee member of the West DenmarkFamily Camp. He also enjoyed singing in choirs, hunting and fishing, and spending time with family.
Bob will be remembered by his students for his aim with an eraser, but ultimately for his devotion to his faith and community.
Bob is survived by sons, David (Diane) Clifton, Thomas (Stephanie) Clifton, James Clifton (Kelly Mitchell) and John (Emily) Clifton; grandchildren, Jason Clifton, Michelle (Jeremy) Kenner, Scott (Sara) Clifton, John RobertClifton and Claire Clifton; great-grandchildren, Malachi Kenner, Jada Kenner, Elijah Kenner, Zechariah Kenner, Cedar Clifton, Treg Clifton, Hannah Clifton and Iver Clifton; and sisters-in-law, Karen Eiseth and Lucille Nielsen. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Alva; siblings-in-law, Gunnar Nielsen, Warren Eiseth, Cedric and Gerda Lyon, and Erling and Marlene Nielsen
A funeral service will be held Friday, Jan. 5, 2024, at 11 a.m., with visitation one hour before. A luncheon willfollow the funeral service at the West Denmark Gym Hall. The family will hold a private graveside service for Bob and Alva.
Memorials can be given to West Denmark Lutheran Church, Polk County Hospice or Luck American Legion.
