It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our father, Clifford Arnold Karlson, on Tuesday, April 15, 2014 at the age of 71. Born on April 8, 1943 in Lafleche, he is predeceased by his parents, Ernest and Mabel Karlson (Oungre) and sister Ellen (Gordon) Exner. He is survived by his loving daughters, Le Anne Welburn of Weyburn, and Wanda Snow of Winnipeg, MB; loyal sons-in-law, Michael Welburn and Scott Snow; grandchildren, Jeremiah Welburn and Jordan and Brooke Snow; brothers, Melvin (Judy) Karlson, Ernie (Angie) Karlson; and sisters, Caroline (Warren) Mills and Donna (Abe) Driedger. Cliff spent his youth in Oungre and Glentworth, but made Weyburn his home for over 40 years after serving in the Canadian Armed Forces with the Royal Canadian Navy. He earned his living as a painter and was self-employed for many of those years. He took great pride in his work and instilled that sense of pride in his daughters. He exemplified the fatherly role of provider and protector through his years of hard work and his genuine concern for his daughters' needs and happiness, which he put above his own. We are forever grateful for all of his sacrifices. He found great peace in the water and had a love of fishing throughout his life, often saying that even a bad day's fishing was better than a good day's work. He also revelled in gardening, and we have many fond memories of him with his granddaughters, sharing with them the joys and bounty of his garden while holding their hands. He was so proud of his young grandson, teaching him to clap his hands. His grandchildren brought out his gentle and tender nature and put a twinkle in his eye. We feel so fortunate and blessed to have had him here to share with us the milestone events in our lives and will cherish those memories as well as all of the little memories interwoven. He had an incredible wit and joyful smile and never lost his sense of humor. Thank you, Dad, for your generous spirit, for the million and one laughs, for your love of and devotion to family, and for the lifetime of lessons that you have taught us. We know how proud you were of us; we can only hope you felt our intense pride for the man and father you were. A Memorial Service was held on Tuesday, April 22 at 2:00 pm from Fletcher Funeral Chapel, Weyburn. Pastor Bryan Keough officiated. Interment will take place at a later date in Hamar Lutheran Cemetery, Bromhead. For family and friends so wishing, donations in memory of Clifford may be made to the Canadian Lung Association. With love and peace, we say goodbye, Dad. We love you always. Condolences may be left at: www.fletcherfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapel, Weyburn, 306-842-5432
