Cliff was born and raised in Bakersfield California and passed away at his home in Prosser, Wa on December 17, 2013.
Cliff was the most loving caregiver in the world, serving his family and country with every breath. Nothing brought more joy to him then sitting out on the back deck during a family barbeque and watching his children and grandchildren, and now great grandchildren, running and playing. As the oldest, and therefore, patriarch of his family, Cliff took this role seriously, always there at a moment notice to be the “big” brother. When family needed shelter and respite Cliff was there, opening his heart caring for his Mother and Father, In-laws and Brother-in-law.
Cliff and Susan raised four children, Heidi, Whitney, Sondra and Jeremy, who have been, and are, the shining moments in their lives. They have been blessed that each of their children and their families were close by and were always a part of “daily” living.
Cliff entered the military, in 1965, enlisting in the Marines (Semper Fi), serving two deployments to Vietnam, receiving his Honorable Discharge with the rank of Sergeant. Upon his return he continued service for three years in the Reserves and was employed with Southern Pacific Pipeline and later Southern Pacific Railroad as Conductor. Cliff retired from Southern Pacific Railroad in 1993, moving to Prosser, Wa, and with loving care watched over our home and property. His home and property were his pride and joy and given as a gift for weddings and other special occasions.
Cliff was preceded in death by both his paternal and maternal grandparents, as well as his father and mother, Patrick Clarence and Daisy Ellen Reams, his aunts, Rosella Dean and Esther Mallon, his cousin, Brett Lafond and nephew, Anthony Moore.
Cliff is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Susan Reams; his children, Heidi DeVriend (Dan), Whitney Reams, Sondra Reams, and Jeremy Russell (Kalisa); his sisters, Patricia Skipworth and Pamela Hoffman; his brother, Patrick Reams (Davina); his aunt, Edna LaFond (Bob); his cousin, Kathy Bamber (Mike); his grandchildren, Trevor Day (Shannen), Mason DeVriend, Anthony Reams, Riley Devriend, Bella Garfein, CJ and Michael Kima, Norah and Ellis Russell; his great grandchildren Declan Day, Tim and Dan Anderson; and his beloved friend Don DeVriend (Lois); as well as numerous extended family members.
A memorial service with Full Military Honors celebrating Cliff's life will be held at his home following the first of the year. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make contributions in his name may do so to Lower Valley Hospice or Toys for Tots.