Robert L. Clifford, 90

Robert L. Clifford, 90, passed on Sept. 16, 2025. He is the loving husband of Donette Clifford, with whom he shared over 50 years of marriage.

Bob was born in Hanover, to Charles and Frieda Clifford on March 5, 1935. He was the eldest of eight children and was just 9 years old when his dad was called to serve in World War II. Bob then learned how to run Woodlawn Farm with his mom and siblings. Bob attended Canaan schools, was a Grange member and graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a degree in agriculture.

Bob and Donette enjoyed gardening, growing vegetables and traveling. He cherished deer hunting time with his brothers. Bob worked at Rutland Nurseries as a foreman for 38 years. Later, he volunteered at Heifer International’s Overlook Farm and raised thousands of dollars for Christian Rural Overseas Program (CROP).

Bob loved going to family gatherings and playing cards with his friends. He sang in the choir at the First Congregational Church of Rutland. Bob was an avid fan of Laconia Motorcycle Week, the Patriots and Red Sox.

Earlier in his life, he was the 4-H agent in Laconia, making a home in Gilford, with his wife Ginny and their four children.

Bob was predeceased by his brother, James Clifford, sister Gail Lemere (Roger) and brother David Clifford (Jo Ann). His surviving siblings in New Hampshire are Louise Clifford of West Canaan, Donald Clifford (Cindy) of Newport, Nancy LaCourse (Bob d. 2016) of Campton and Thomas Clifford (Doree) of Lebanon.

Bob’s children are Mike Clifford (Donna), Patti Clifford (Doug Tankard d. 2019), Sandy O’Brien (Kevin) and Rob Clifford (Angela). His grandchildren include Alex, Benjamin, Aaron, Rachel, Beck, Ella, Norah, Alyson and Jordan. His great-grandchildren are Lily, Jackson, Ozzie, Elijah and ZaCaria. Bob was a wonderful uncle to many nieces and nephews.

The family is grateful to Holden Skilled Nursing for their three years of loving care and to Notre Dame Hospice.

Family and friends are invited to a calling hour from 11 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Oct. 23, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St. in Holden, Massachusetts, followed by a memorial service at noon in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Notre Dame Hospice, 555 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01605, or online using this unique code: weblink.donorperfect.com/MemorialRClifford. For the full obituary, visit milesfuneralhome.com.